The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has drafted a proposal to make terrace gardens mandatory in new buildings in Mumbai. This proposal has been sent to the state’s Urban Development Department for approval. If the state government gives the green light, builders will be required to include a terrace garden in their building designs before getting construction approval.
A BMC official stated that the primary objective of this initiative is to enhance greenery in the city. Due to global warming, weather patterns are changing rapidly, and temperatures have been soaring, with Mumbai recording 38°C in March. The increasing urbanization has reduced the number of trees and plants, making it necessary to implement alternative green solutions. The plan to mandate terrace gardens was conceptualized two years ago, and now, BMC has finalized the proposal for government approval.
Currently, over 3,000 construction projects are underway in Mumbai, most of which are high-rise buildings. If the proposal is approved, it will ensure that new buildings contribute to the city’s green cover.
The Times of Mumbai Spoke to Developers to Know What Would be the Key Challenges and Maintenance Concerns for terrace Garden Buildings, Here Are the excerpts
The proposed project requires approval from relevant authorities, specifying the structure as ground plus designated stories with a terrace garden. The construction of the terrace garden necessitates an additional plan for the terrace slab, incorporating specialized German materials designed to prevent leakage and structural damage, said Vimal Thakkar, Chairman of Manovi Group.
He further added this initiative is particularly beneficial for residential complexes with limited ground space for recreational activities and gardens, while reducing heat impact on lower flats, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency. However, key concerns include the maintenance of the garden, as the presence of water and soil poses a risk of seepage, potentially leading to structural issues. Regular maintenance and high-quality construction materials will be essential to ensure durability, safety, and the long-term sustainability of the terrace garden.
Vinod Mishra, Chairman of Gajanan Group, welcomed the initiative as a positive step in addressing climate change but stressed that maintenance is more critical than just installation. He noted that while developers can create terrace gardens, their long-term upkeep will depend on the residents, making it essential to introduce regulations for their proper maintenance. Additionally, he raised concerns about potential structural damage caused by plant roots, urging authorities to develop a proper mechanism to address these challenges before implementing the mandate.
