It has been observed that many old buildings which might even have been given a lifespan of 100 years by the builders 50 to 55 years back are partially in a bad condition and may be in need to be redeveloped. However, it has to be stressed that builders who are taking so called old buildings are charging an exorbitant rate and the deal is not within the reach of individual constituents of the owners because even in the urban areas there are many who are not financially capable of bearing the redevelopment charges.
It would be in the fitness of things that in case of redevelopment, it should be a law that the original residents be given flats and shops that are without any extra charges as well as that during the time of reconstruction be given alternate accommodation because they are parting with their proportionate share of the land that they are owning free to the construction company which for example in the city of Panaji is very, very precious, going well above Rs one lakh per square metre which should be compulsorily incorporated in the scheme of redevelopment.
It has been noticed in the city that many co-operative societies do not maintain the buildings, while others maintain buildings in very good condition. The major benefit of the redevelopment should be for the owners as now most builders, due to the liberal FAR which may go even above 2.5 have the advantage of upward development with even a three storied building now in existence being able to go to being built up to at least seven storied, which means that the builder is benefitting by four stories, which should be enough reason for making a decent profit. What does a co-owner who does not have the financial ability to pay do in case of a deal which is beyond the paying capacity of the individual.
It may be a fact that due to the poor maintenance of buildings, its life span has been reduced and that prudent measures have to be resorted to so as at least that the owners of the flats and shops are not being affected adversely.
The whole concept of redevelopment is defeated if the deal made is not acceptable to those who are facing financial hardships. In such cases it would be the need of the hour that the builders waive at least the burden on individual members who are co-owning the flat or shop. While, it would make good sense to demolish so called old buildings and built a new one but not at exorbitant rates which cannot be borne by individuals on the other hand unreasonable deals would be counterproductive. It has been noticed that builders in the fray for redevelopment are giving free flats and shops to the original owners while also providing alternate accommodation during reconstruction or offer a sizeable rent in lieu, while resorting to charging extra and not providing alternate accommodation to others. Many a times some of the residents are gullible enough to consent but realize later that they are not in a position to pay may be because of having spent their finances on medical treatment or because their small businesses are not profitable and leaves them in a dilemma. It is not possible to always predict your state of health and many a times your savings have to be spent of maintaining your health which is most important aspect. In such cases the construction company should be empathetic. It looks like in Goa as in other places also real estate is an easy way of making money.
