Maharashtra Govt Introduces Micro-Zoning in Key Cities to Stabilize Real Estate Sector
Nagpur: The Maharashtra government has taken a series of measures to stabilize the real estate sector by introducing micro-zoning in key urban centers, easing property norms, and reducing land survey costs. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced these decisions on Wednesday, stating that the government has opted against a proposed 12% to 14% increase in Ready Reckoner (RR) rates in light of the current global situation following the war in West Asia.
One of the key initiatives is the introduction of micro-zoning in Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This system will determine property valuations based on hyper-local factors such as infrastructure and amenities. Bawankule emphasized, 'One property's rate will not be applied to another; valuation will reflect the specific characteristics of each location.' This approach is linked to evolving development plans and regional layouts.
Despite rising property prices over the past year, the decision to hold RR rates steady signals a calibrated approach to maintain affordability and sustain demand. Additionally, the government has expanded the regularization limit for unauthorized residential constructions built before January 1, 2011, from 500 sq ft to 1,500 sq ft. This benefit will apply to structures on government land or within approved layouts, subject to proof of Maharashtra residency and inclusion in the 2011 electoral rolls. Constructions beyond 1,500 sq ft will continue to face action.
To streamline land-related services, the government has introduced a new 'Version 2' software by the land records department. This system will reduce the cost of land measurement from as high as ₹10,000 to about ₹1,000, with a fixed charge of ₹200 per subdivision. Officials noted that the system will rely on cloud-based data storage to improve efficiency and transparency.
Further, the government has decentralized quasi-judicial powers to expedite administrative processes. District collectors will now decide cases up to ₹10 lakh, divisional commissioners up to ₹20 lakh, and matters up to ₹1 crore will be resolved at the local level. Revenue disputes must be concluded within 90 days and in no more than two hearings, according to the minister.
Taking a firm stance on rural access, the government has warned that those blocking farm access roads could face suspension of benefits under government schemes for up to five years. Officials added that the 2026 Census would help refine future development planning. Bawankule stated, 'Our government is committed to speed and transparency, and decentralization will save both time and money for citizens.'
Key takeaways from the government's announcements include: - Maharashtra drops 12%-14% Ready Reckoner rate hike plan citing global uncertainty. - Micro-zoning to be implemented in Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. - Property valuation to depend on hyper-local infrastructure and amenities. - Regularization limit raised from 500 sq ft to 1,500 sq ft for pre-2011 constructions. - Eligibility linked to Maharashtra residency and 2011 electoral rolls. - Land survey costs cut from ₹10,000 to about ₹1,000 using new software. - Cloud-based system to improve transparency and efficiency. - Decentralization of powers for faster dispute resolution. - Revenue cases to be resolved within 90 days in two hearings. - Blocking farm access roads may lead to loss of government benefits.
