Delhi Development Authority (DDA) is making strides in its "Vision 2041" initiative with notable progress in sustainable urban development. Updates shared by vice-chairman Subhasish Panda include the in-situ rehabilitation of 18 slums, 70% land pooling in 20 identified sectors, and transit-oriented development projects. Efforts are also underway to increase affordable housing sales, and to restore the Yamuna floodplain, with 90% of rejuvenation achieved in four out of ten sites. These advances underline DDA's commitment to create an inclusive and sustainable Delhi.
In the quest to achieve significant milestones in the plan "Vision 2041", Delhi Development Authority's (DDA) vice-chairman, Subhasish Panda, recently highlighted the strides taken by the agency, during an interactive session with external affairs minister S. Jaishankar and deputy minister Meenakshi Lekhi.
Panda provided updates on multiple DDA initiatives, including the in-situ rehabilitation of slums, transit-oriented development, land pooling, and the restoration of the Yamuna floodplain, among others. These discussions were part of the nationwide activities commemorating the ninth anniversary of the Modi government.
Panda revealed that 12 nodes for transit-oriented development (TOD) have been pinpointed, in addition to the ongoing project at Karkardooma. The goal is to encourage mixed-use development near multi-modal transit hubs and highways, reducing commute times, walking distances, and creating a safer environment.
"In-situ rehabilitation" is in progress across 10 sites, encompassing 18 slums. Projects in Kalkaji have been finished, while the ones in Jailorwala Bagh and Kathputli Colony are set to conclude in August and December, respectively.
Out of 138 sectors earmarked for land pooling, the agency has achieved 70% pooling in 20 sectors. Consortium formation notice has been issued for two sectors, with provisional notices extended to 12 additional sectors. Panda specified, "The land pooling policy is applicable in 105 villages with a total poolable land of 20,640 hectares, out of which 7,435 hectares have been pooled."
With an aim to boost the sale of flats, the DDA is implementing strategic measures like amendments to existing regulations, offering flats to lower-income groups at subsidized rates, and incentivizing government departments to purchase flats. Panda stated that the agency currently holds an inventory of 40,000 units.
Regarding the restoration of the Yamuna floodplain, 90% of the rejuvenation work across four out of ten sites is already completed, with the remaining to be finished by December end. Despite hurdles like the appropriation of developed land for the RRTS and NHAI projects, the DDA is determined to rejuvenate the remaining land.
Panda also shared the DDA's plan to construct a 200km cycle-walk track spanning five phases. The first phase includes a 36km stretch, moving through parks and green spaces, awaiting approval from the principal committee. In addition to this, the Urban Extension Road II project is ready for inauguration, and a drain rejuvenation project is underway in Dwarka.
In conclusion, DDA's vision of transforming Delhi by 2041 highlights its commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and overall urban development. With an integrated approach to housing, infrastructure, and environment, the DDA is making steady progress towards shaping a city that accommodates all economic strata, promotes sustainable growth, and preserves its natural assets.