The Maharashtra government has invited real estate developers to participate in the development of 3,360 acre of land owned by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). These lands will be developed under public-private partnership (PPP) models on a build-operate-transfer basis. The state plans to release approximately 150 tenders for these projects. MSRTC owns significant land in key locations across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), including 26 acre in areas like Mumbai Central, Kurla, Vidyavihar, and Chinchbunder. It also holds nearly 24 acre in Pune, with notable plots in Swargate and Sangvi. Furthermore, the corporation has land in district areas (885 acre), talukas (1,535 acre), and villages (945 acre). The projects will be awarded to developers based on the premium offered, with the floor space index (FSI) allocated according to the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR). Developers will be tasked with leasing the commercial portions of the developments. The plan includes the construction of commercial properties such as office spaces, hotels, shopping centres, and retail outlets. Additionally, 100-bed hospitals will be developed in district areas, along with facilities to support MSRTC operations. To ensure efficiency, MSRTC will centralise the approval process for development plans, eliminating the need for multiple approvals from different government agencies. The corporation is also strengthening its technical teams to effectively manage the projects. Architect Hafeez Contractor has been appointed to create a development framework for upgrading bus depots to modern standards. The goal is to enhance passenger and employee facilities, with improvements in sanitation, cleanliness, and amenities for staff working late shifts. News source: The Indian Express