Industry associations in Rajasthan seek flexibility in building height in RIICO areas. They say that the current 15-meter benchmark would constrain expansion just as India’s trade agreements provide access to big export markets. For all owners, lessees, and prospective purchasers of industrial property in Rajasthan, this discussion should be of interest.
What Industry Is Asking For
During the meeting with the RIICO’s chairman and the ACS Industries’ Shikhar Agarwal, the representatives brought up the subject. Their argument is a simple one. The vertical growth allows the existing units to expand by adding additional production lines, storage, and support facilities without purchasing additional land.
Industry does not want to have all safety norms removed. It is seeking a structure that allows for a certain height based on these factors:
- Plot size
- Road width
- Setbacks
- Firefighting infrastructure
- Other safety requirements
Why the Timing Matters
Greater market access to India for its export goods should be provided through its trade deals with the UK and the European Union. That might require exporting companies to acquire additional production facilities and land that is close to existing facilities, which tends to be in short supply and expensive. They have another means of growth when they are built up from bottom to top.
Several states have already given permission for taller structures for garment units, provided they fulfil additional infrastructure and safety requirements, said garment exporters association president Rakshit Poddar of Rajasthan. Giving similar provisions to Rajasthan.
How Other States Handle Height
Industrial structures up to a height of 18.3 meters are allowed in Tamil Nadu based on certain road width and setback norms. However, 15 meters is not a strict limit in Maharashtra either, though taller constructions require additional fire clearance. Karnataka has provisions for taller structures.
What RIICO Rules Say Today
RIICO regulations already permit consideration of buildings over 18 metres where units meet the specified requirements. Industry sources state that the approval process is difficult to make such expansion possible. Where infrastructure permits taller buildings, they would like a more predictable and less restrictive mechanism.
What This Means for Property Buyers and Investors
This is not a mandate from RIICO but a requirement from industry. Nevertheless, it suggests a direction to follow.
- Plots with wide road access and generous setbacks could gain value if height rules relax.
- Owners may add floor area without buying neighboring land, which lowers expansion cost.
- Fire safety compliance will stay a key requirement, so budget for it early.
- Approval timelines will matter as much as the height limit itself, since a slow process can delay expansion by months.
Questions Worth Asking
- Will your plot be able to meet the road width and setback requirements if the rules change?
- Would it be cheaper to construct upwards on top of the existing buildings or to purchase adjacent property?
Conclusion
Industry seeks definite, but contingent, rules that would allow a unit to expand upwards without compromising safety. The case for the exporters who are ready for more demand is strong, but it hinges upon the action taken by RIICO. Monitor the discussion, review the plot, and be prepared with a fire safety plan.
As these discussions continue to shape opportunities for businesses and exporters, platforms such as BigSauda can help bring industry-related information, business perspectives, and emerging opportunities into focus. Staying informed and connected can help businesses make better decisions as the market evolves.
