Relaxation of Open Space Requirements for Glass Facade Commercial Buildings: A Step Backwards for Climate Action
The Maharashtra state government has relaxed the quantum of open space requirement for commercial buildings with glass facades, sparking concerns among activists and experts about the impact on climate change mitigation.
Glass FacadeCommercial BuildingsOpen SpaceClimate ChangeCredai MchiReal Estate MumbaiJul 21, 2024
However, this move has sparked concerns about the impact on climate change mitigation efforts. With the city experiencing a severe heatwave this summer, the importance of open spaces in providing natural light and ventilation cannot be overstated. Moreover, reduced open spaces can lead to increased energy consumption, as buildings rely more heavily on artificial light and mechanical ventilation.
Architect Vilas Nagalkar, a member of the Practising Engineers, Architects and Town Planners Association (PEATA), points out that the relaxation of open space requirements is intended to encourage developers to construct buildings with higher floor space indices. However, this comes at the cost of reduced open spaces, which can have devastating consequences for the environment.
Urban researcher and architect Hussain Indorewala agrees, highlighting the negative impacts of reduced open spaces on neighbouring buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relaxation of open space requirements for commercial buildings with glass facades?
The Maharashtra state government has decided to relax the quantum of open space requirement for commercial buildings with glass facades, citing the provision of artificial light and mechanical ventilation through the glass facade.
What are the concerns surrounding this relaxation of regulations?
Experts and activists are concerned that the relaxation of open space requirements will lead to increased energy consumption, reduced natural light and ventilation, and increased vulnerability to heat-island effect and local flooding.
How does this move impact climate change mitigation efforts?
The relaxation of open space requirements seems to be at odds with the government's commitment to climate action and net zero emissions, as it encourages reliance on artificial light and mechanical ventilation instead of natural light and ventilation.
What is CREDAI-MCHI's stance on this issue?
CREDAI-MCHI, the real estate advocacy group, has been pushing for this relaxation, citing the need to encourage development and generate jobs.
What are the potential consequences of reduced open spaces?
Reduced open spaces can lead to increased energy consumption, reduced natural light and ventilation, and increased vulnerability to heat-island effect and local flooding, as well as reduced access for fire engines.
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