Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Clears Plan to Allow High-Rises on Narrow Roads Across Mumbai
Mumbai, April 29, 2026: In a major policy shift, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved an amendment to ease building height restrictions, potentially allowing high-rise developments even on roads narrower than 9 metres.
The move, cleared by the civic body’s Improvements Committee under the Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034, is expected to unlock redevelopment opportunities across large parts of the city.
What Changes Under the New Policy
Until now, high-rise buildings were permitted only on roads at least 9 metres wide. The revised proposal introduces graded height permissions based on road width:
• 3.6-metre roads: Up to 32 metres (~10 floors)
• 4.5-metre roads: Up to 70 metres (~21–23 floors)
• 6-metre roads: Up to 120 metres (~31–32 floors)
• 9-metre and above: No major change, high-rises allowed
All such developments will require a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the fire department, while taller buildings will also need clearance from the high-rise committee.
Boost for Redevelopment
The amendment is expected to revive redevelopment in congested areas where projects were earlier unviable due to narrow access roads.
With over 40,000 buildings in Mumbai more than 30 years old—many in South Mumbai over 70 years old—the policy could accelerate renewal of ageing housing stock and unlock unused land parcels.
Developers say the change will especially benefit gaothan areas and older colonies where redevelopment has been stalled for years.
Concerns Over Infrastructure
Urban planners have raised concerns about increased density in already congested neighbourhoods. Issues such as traffic congestion, strain on civic infrastructure and emergency access remain key challenges.
Experts have also highlighted the need for strict fire safety compliance and better planning to ensure that high-rise development does not compromise safety.
Next Steps
The proposal will come into effect after receiving final approval from the state urban development department.
If implemented, the policy could significantly reshape Mumbai’s skyline, allowing high-rise buildings in areas that were previously restricted due to narrow road access.