The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has announced a plan to develop a land parcel under the long-shelved Indirapuram Extension scheme, allocating INR 5 crore for essential infrastructure like roads, parks, and a sewer network. Covering 30,000 square metres, the project will feature 47 residential and three commercial plots, set to be auctioned within a year. GDA officials project revenue of over INR 285 crore, with residential plots priced at INR 95,000 per square metre and commercial parcels at INR 1.15 lakh. The initiative comes after years of delays caused by farmer protests and legal challenges over land compensation.
The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has formulated a comprehensive plan to develop a land parcel as part of the Indirapuram Extension scheme, which was initially launched two decades ago but had to be temporarily shelved due to protests from local farmers regarding land acquisition issues. This development is significant as it marks a renewed effort to address the longstanding challenges associated with this project. According to officials from the GDA, a substantial budget of INR 5 crore has been allocated specifically for the construction of essential infrastructure, including roads, a sewer network, parks, and various other civic amenities that will enhance the overall livability of the area.
A GDA official elaborated on the specifics of the plan, indicating that this phase of development will cover a total area of 30,000 square metres. The land will be divided into 47 residential plots and three commercial plots, allowing for a mix of residential and commercial development. Once the infrastructure is completed, the developed land parcels are slated to be auctioned to interested buyers. In addition to the roads and drainage systems, the area will be enhanced with the inclusion of a substation and vertical gardens, which will contribute to the environmental sustainability and aesthetic appeal of the project. Furthermore, the official mentioned that the land would be secured with a 10-foot boundary wall, ensuring safety and demarcation. The plots are expected to go up for auction within the next year, generating significant interest among potential investors.
GDA officials also shared their optimistic outlook on the financial potential of the housing scheme, indicating that they anticipate generating over INR 285 crore in revenue from the auctions. Residential plots are expected to be priced at INR 95,000 per square metre, while commercial parcels will be offered at INR 1.15 lakh per square metre, in line with the current circle rate for land in the area.
Notably, it was only in August of this year that the GDA board took the important step of approving a proposal to subdivide the land in the Indirapuram Extension project into smaller, more manageable plots. This decision comes after years of uncertainty surrounding the project. The background of this situation dates back to 2004, when the state government acquired land from farmers in Mohiuddinpur Kanawani village at a rate of INR 1,100 per square metre. However, in a twist of events the following year, a group of 225 farmers managed to secure a stay from the Allahabad High Court concerning the land acquisition, as they sought increased compensation for their land. This legal challenge has played a significant role in delaying the project's progress and highlights the complexities involved in land acquisition and development in the region.
The project was put on hold as the GDA was unable to take possession of the land. Over the years, the housing scheme became financially unviable due to the new Land Acquisition Act, leading the development authority to shelve it in 2019. However, a glimmer of hope emerged with a Supreme Court order on 20 May 2022.
In a case involving the Ayodhya Development Authority, the apex court ruled that any land compensation issues initiated before the new Land Acquisition Act took effect in 2014 should be assessed based on the rates that were in place at that time, regardless of whether the plots could be acquired. This ruling opened the door for the GDA to revive the project.
The GDA's renewed efforts to develop the Indirapuram Extension project signify a positive step toward addressing previous challenges and fostering growth in the region. With a comprehensive plan in place and anticipated revenue, this initiative aims to transform the area into a thriving residential and commercial hub.
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