Guj prepares for redevelopment reforms

Urgency stems from aging infra in major cities; govt studying Maha model of self-redevelopment by societies

- | Nikunj.Soni

With nearly 10,000 housing societies across Gujarat contemplating redevelopment, the state government is preparing to revise existing regulations to inject greater transparency and accelerate new construction. The urgency stems from aging infrastructure in the heart of major cities, where deteriorating buildings now demand fresh construction.

In response to mounting challenges—particularly for societies unable to attract developers due to legal and technical complications—the government is studying Maharashtra's self-redevelopment model. A policy decision on adopting similar provisions is expected soon, aimed at empowering societies to undertake projects independently.

The current framework, introduced in 2019 under Section 41A of the Gujarat Ownership of Flats Act, 1973, mandates that buildings must be at least 25 years old and structurally unsound, with 75% member approval required to initiate redevelopment. However, some stakeholders are advocating for a reduction in the consent threshold to 51%, aligning with Maharashtra's approach to expedite stalled projects.