Mumbai, Aug. 26 -- Developers will soon be incentivised to build larger fitness or yoga centres in residential buildings, with the BMC proposing to double the FSI-free space for such facilities from 2% to 4% of the total built-up area. For this purpose, the Development Control Promotional Regulations (DCPR) 2034 will be amended soon, officials said. Currently, residential buildings are allowed to have a fitness centre up to 2% of the total built-up area that is free of FSI or floor space index, which is the ratio between the built-up area and the plot area. Following requests from architects, builders, and citizens, the BMC has decided to amend the regulations and incentivise developers to build larger fitness centres that will be free of FSI. It has invited suggestions and objections from stakeholders to the proposed rule change. Sunil Rathod, chief engineer from the BMC's development plan department, said, "There was a demand from architects, builders and even the general public to have larger gyms or fitness centres. Earlier, we allowed 2% of the total area (to be FSI-free), and now it will be 4%." Another BMC officer said that most buildings have no space for yoga classes. As a result, people hold these classes in the refuge area of the building, which is supposed to be empty. Manoj Daisaria, town planner and former president of the Practising Engineers, Architects and Town Planners Association, said, "Health and fitness have become essential in today's busy lifestyle. It's going to be a big asset to have a well-maintained fitness centre in any society. 4% additional built-up area proposed for a fitness centre will enhance the quality of living style in housing complexes."...