The National Green Tribunal made it mandatory for developers to get environmental clearance for projects above 20,000 sq m.
"If the project area is less than 20,000 sq m, developers can get approval at the local level itself. Developers used to exclude non floor space index (FSI) while submitting plans, so as to decrease the total construction area and get the plan approved by the local corporation,
Non-FSI area includes staircase, lobby, flowerbeds etc. Even though developers were charging buyers for super built-up area, they were systematically dropping this non-FSI area to avoid environmental clearance.
If a project is to be submitted for environment clearance, developers will have to show the entire plan, including parking space, recreation facilities, open space and fire safety system.
NGT order stated that the 2011 circular of the environment impact assessment will be applicable retrospectively since 2006.
Thus, you ascertain the facts based on the ruling by NGT given above and decide about proceeding with your proposal to buy the property.