NAREDCO Calls for Government Action on Aviation Constraints Impacting Real Estate Development

The National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO), under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, has urged the Indian government to address aviation-related regulatory challenges that are hindering the growth of the real estate sector in key urban areas. Major cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata are facing significant development constraints due to height restrictions imposed by aviation regulations. These restrictions limit the construction of taller buildings, thereby affecting the potential for real estate development in these cities, which are already grappling with space shortages and high property demands.

Recommendations Submitted to the Government

In a recent submission, NAREDCO provided a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at resolving the issue of height restrictions. One of the key suggestions is the relocation of aviation facilities such as High Frequency (HF) Transmitter (Tx) and Receiver (Rx) stations. By moving these facilities outside city limits, the height restrictions on buildings in urban areas could be relaxed, allowing for the construction of taller structures without interfering with HF signals.

Furthermore, NAREDCO recommended extending shielding benefits to buildings. Currently, shielding benefits—which protect structures from aviation regulations—are only applicable to natural terrains like hills. The council suggested that these benefits should be extended to cover buildings and man-made structures as well. This move could enable taller constructions in cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, which are known for their real estate potential but are restricted by aviation-related height limitations.

NAREDCO also urged the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to utilize more accurate contour data when determining areas eligible for shielding benefits. According to the council, the current contour data being used by the AAI has a high margin of error, leading to unnecessary restrictions on construction projects. By using precise data, the AAI could help unlock greater real estate potential while ensuring compliance with aviation safety standards.

Aeronautical Studies and Legal Resolutions

Another significant proposal by NAREDCO is the recommendation to conduct detailed aeronautical studies to resolve legal issues that arise due to height restrictions. Instead of requiring the demolition of existing structures that might violate aviation regulations, NAREDCO believes that a more practical approach would be to conduct thorough aeronautical assessments. These studies would help in identifying safe solutions that allow buildings to remain intact while ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Additionally, NAREDCO has called for more flexibility in existing regulations related to approach surfaces near runways. In cases where the runway threshold is displaced due to obstacles, the council suggested that the regulations should be adjusted to allow for minor changes in the location of approach surfaces. This flexibility would facilitate smoother operations without the need for extensive regulatory hurdles or construction delays.

Pending Recommendations and Height Tolerance Adjustments

During discussions with the Joint Working Group, which included an expert committee led by aviation expert Fali Major, NAREDCO also reminded the government of two previously accepted recommendations that have yet to be implemented. These include:

1. Vertical Height Tolerance: Allowing for a 0.5-meter vertical height tolerance during construction. This change would provide developers with a small but significant margin of error, making the construction process more efficient without compromising safety.

2. Redesigning Approach and Landing Procedures: Adjusting the current approach and landing procedures to reflect changes in height regulations. This update would accommodate minor height variations without disrupting aviation safety.

Addressing Broader Issues in Aviation Regulations

Beyond the specific proposals, NAREDCO raised several broader issues that need to be addressed to ensure the smooth development of real estate in urban areas. One such issue is the revision of how height restrictions are calculated near airports. The current method, according to NAREDCO, is outdated and does not reflect the latest technological advancements or the current urban landscape.

Moreover, NAREDCO highlighted the importance of extending the validity of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for construction projects that were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many projects experienced delays due to the pandemic, and extending the validity of NOCs would provide relief to developers who are still recovering from the disruptions caused by the global health crisis.

Another area of concern is the clarification of new regulations related to aerodrome obstacle surfaces. The real estate sector is facing confusion regarding the interpretation of these new rules, which has led to delays in project approvals. NAREDCO has called on the government to provide clear guidelines that would help developers navigate the regulatory framework more easily.

Looking Ahead: A Collaborative Approach

NAREDCO's National President, G Hari Babu, highlighted the need for collaboration between the government and the real estate sector to overcome regulatory challenges. He emphasized that addressing these issues is crucial for the growth of urban development in a safe and sustainable manner. NAREDCO's recommendations aim to unlock significant real estate opportunities by easing aviation-related restrictions, which would facilitate more efficient development and address the increasing demand for housing and commercial spaces in India's expanding cities.

Conclusion

NAREDCO's recommendations present a pragmatic approach to resolving the challenges posed by aviation regulations. If implemented, these measures could pave the way for taller buildings, more efficient urban development, and a more flexible regulatory environment, ultimately benefiting both the real estate sector and urban dwellers.