Panel moots compensation for repairs at heritage sites…..Sharvari Patwa
With a view to encourage owners of protected heritage structures to undertake repair and restoration of their buildings, the Mumbai Heritage Conservation Committee (MHCC) has suggested they be given financial incentives and compensation for maintenance work. Such a decision could benefit owners of nearly 1,000 heritage properties in the city, including both private owners and government agencies.
The proposal drafted by MHCC members has been sent to Municipal Commissioner Subodh Kumar for review and approval.
We have suggested a comprehensive policy on monetary compensation and other incentives for heritage properties that need repair and maintenance. Incentives such as funds for repair work or property tax rebates should be given to these owners, said Dinesh Afzalpurkar, chairman of the BMCs Heritage Committee.
There are about 538 listed heritage structures and 14 precincts.
The repair fund under the District Planning and Development Council is limited and buildings that need urgent repairs may not be a priority, said a senior BMC official. About Rs 4 crore was provided last year for the repair of heritage buildings housing government offices. This proposal could finally provide assistance to private owners of heritage structures.