Gandhinagar: International Skyscraper Day, observed on 3rd September, is dedicated to the appreciation of tall buildings and their architectural brilliance.

Until 2017, a maximum height of 70 meters was permissible, for the buildings in Gujarat. Recognising the need for urban expansion and the potential for vertical growth, the State Government took steps to revise regulations, promoting the construction of tall, structures exceeding 100 metres. These new regulations, published on 27 May 2021, have paved the way for the development of skyscrapers in major cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot, Vadodara, and Gandhinagar.

The government’s new regulations permit tall buildings with a maximum Floor Space Index (FSI) of 5.4. Premium FSI, which exceeds the base FSI, is available at 50% of the ready reckoner rate, incentivising developers to invest in vertical growth.

Since the introduction of these regulations, 30 tall buildings have been approved across Ahmedabad, Surat, Gandhinagar, and Vadodara. In the GIFT City, Financial Tech City of Gujarat, two tall buildings are already constructed, and the other 10 buildings are at various stages of construction.

This surge in vertical development has generated significant revenue, with approximately ₹1000 crore received by local bodies through premium FSI. The completion of several projects is anticipated before Diwali, further enhancing the state’s urban landscape.

These buildings are not only setting new records in height but also incorporating advanced construction technologies such as Mivan formwork, shear walls, and skywalks at terrace levels. Additionally, provision for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure ensures that these developments are future-ready.

A Special Technical Committee (STC) at the state level, chaired by the Principal Secretary of the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department, has been established to assess the feasibility of tall building projects. This committee includes experts in Soil Mechanics, Structural Engineering, and Fire Services, ensuring that safety remains a top priority.

Many of these skyscrapers are rated as green buildings, contributing to sustainable urban growth and reducing the environmental impact of new construction. The transformation of Gujarat’s skyline can be seen on SG Road in Ahmedabad, which is witnessing a surge in commercial space development. With higher FSI now available, this area is set to become a hub for skyscrapers. DeshGujarat