BMC to Integrate Artificial Intelligence in AutoDCR Building Approvals Process

Mumbai's Civic Body to Integrate AI in Building Approval Process

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is planning to enhance its automatic development control rules (AutoDCR) process with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). This move aims to further reduce human interaction and ease the business process for developers. The initiative was announced by Ashwini Bhide, the newly-appointed municipal commissioner, at a change-of-guard event organised by the Maharashtra chapter of National Real Estate Development Council (NAREDCO) on April 9.

AutoDCR is an online building approval mechanism used by the BMC, where authorised architects and surveyors can submit building plans for apartments using computer-aided drawings. The system compares building plans with rules for compliance, identifies errors and issues approvals and certificates. Developers also use the mechanism for payment of fees and premiums to the BMC. Other bodies, such as the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), have also started using AutoDCR for faster approvals.

Despite the increase in land prices, Ashwini Bhide emphasized the need for sustainable real estate development in Mumbai. She stated that infrastructure improvements lead to higher land values, and developers should focus on maximising value in a mindful and sustainable manner. Bhide also highlighted the importance of improving the happiness quotient of citizens, ensuring easy mobility and accessibility to services.

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Ashwini Bhide took over as the municipal commissioner on March 31, becoming the first woman to head the civic body. Prior to her appointment, she served as the principal secretary to Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Bhide is well-known for her tenure as the managing director of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), which executed and operates the Aqua Line of the Mumbai Metro.

Note: The table above illustrates the comparison between the AutoDCR system with AI integration and without AI integration, as well as the impact of infrastructure improvements on land prices.