Is FSI Dependent on Land Availability and Densities? A Comparative Review of FSI in Indian Cities

Abstract

In the present era of rapid urbanization, the prime concern is how to regulate development in our cities considering the present growth dynamics. FSI, (Floor space index-the ratio of built-up space on a plot to the area of the plot) is one such regulation predominant in the development control norms, which primarily dictates the overall urban form. In this article, the author investigates the current FSI norms in codes, guidelines and development controls across cities that are classified as large cities. Author takes the secondary data of six cities to find out how FSI is varying in cities with respect to the available land and densities through an empirical analysis. Sample study area building byelaws are taken to make a comparative study on FSI. The result shows FSI in study area are not based on densities or available land but road widths and setbacks and in other cities it varies based on nature of the building activity. Finally, it is found that the FSI is independent of the land availability and density in India and there is no standard model for assigning FSI. To increase or decrease the FSI in a city, shall depend upon some key parameters and an investigation of those parameters shall indicate the FSI control in the cities.

 

Keywords: Floor space index, cities, development controls, density, land.