The distance between buildings in Noida and Greater Noida has been reduced from 16 metres to nine metres with a change in building by-laws being introduced here. While the authorities say this will help increase green cover, experts say it will restrict the flow of natural light and lead occupants of flats to feel suffocated.
According to officials, this change will apply only to utility buildings, like clubs, inside a housing project. “An amendment in the building by-laws has been approved by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA). As per the amended rule, the distance between two towers has been reduced from 16 metres to nine metres. However, this will apply only to utility buildings in a project,” said Leenu Sehgal, GNIDA General Manager (Planning).
A proposal in this regard was sent to the NCR Planning Board and the State government, which have reportedly approved the change.
GNIDA officials have assured that green cover would not be compromised with, besides proper ventilation and flow of natural light being ensured, when permissions are granted to housing projects.
Green cover
“The authority conducts surveys and thoroughly checks that a building is developed as per building by-laws. We have told the developers that green cover and ventilation are not compromised with,” explained a senior official.
Experts, however, said that the move would lead to suffocation inside flats and reduce space available for emergency operations.
“Reducing distance between two buildings will lead to problems like suffocation and disruption of flow of natural light and air supply. The move will also limit space for rescue operations,” said Udai Singh, a construction expert.
