The Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) officials met with the local bodies department to secure approval for the Atal Apartments project, which has faced prolonged delays and uncertainty over its 15-year history. LIT officials, despite concerns about a low bid, expressed optimism about receiving written approval, highlighting the project's importance. The project involves constructing HIG and MIG flats with modern amenities, and once approved, it is expected to take three years to complete at an estimated cost of Rs 224 crore.
The Ludhiana Improvement Trust (LIT) recently convened a crucial meeting with the chief engineers of the local bodies department to determine the fate of the Atal Apartments project. This significant undertaking has been shrouded in uncertainty and has garnered attention due to numerous setbacks and delays over the years. LIT officials have been eagerly awaiting approval from the department to move forward with the construction of flats under this ambitious project.
One of the primary concerns plaguing the LIT officials was the inexplicable delay in receiving a response, even a month after they had submitted the project file for approval. Frustrated by the lack of communication, they decided to take matters into their own hands by journeying to Chandigarh to personally explain the intricacies of the project to the department officials.
Following the meeting in Chandigarh, the LIT officials expressed optimism, claiming that the department's response was favourable. According to their statements, they anticipate receiving the long-awaited approval letter within a day. This pivotal step will pave the way for the issuance of work orders and the commencement of construction.
Despite the apparent nod from the department, the LIT officials are keen to receive written approval to eliminate any potential complications in the future. This cautious approach underscores the importance of ensuring a seamless progression of the Atal Apartments project, which holds significant promise for both the city and the Ludhiana Improvement Trust.
One noteworthy aspect of this development is the competitive bidding process that led to the selection of the contractor for the project. The lowest bidder emerged with an offer to undertake the construction work at Rs 30 crore, which represents a substantial 14.5% reduction compared to the fixed price. While this low bid might raise concerns about potential compromises in quality, the LIT officials remain confident that they will secure approval for the project, emphasizing its crucial role in the city's development.
The Atal Apartments project has endured a tumultuous journey, marked by frequent cancellations and delays that have left it in a state of uncertainty. The total estimated cost of the project hovers around Rs 224 crore, and LIT expects it to take at least three years before the possession of flats can be handed over to the public.
The project's scope includes the construction of 336 HIG (High-Income Group) flats and 240 MIG (Middle-Income Group) flats, in addition to a community center and tower parking, all encompassed within an expansive 8.8-acre plot in Shaheed Karnail Singh Nagar, Pakhowal Road. Notably, responses were received for the construction of HIG flats at a cost of Rs 125 crore and MIG flats at a cost of Rs 70 crore.
The Atal Apartments project is poised to redefine residential living in Ludhiana, with twelve-storeyed earthquake-resistant towers serving as the backdrop for these modern apartments. The amenities promised include a swimming pool, gymnasium, lush green parks, a clubhouse, CCTV surveillance, 24-hour water supply, table-tennis rooms, a multi-purpose hall, double lifts with round-the-clock power backup, video-door phones in each flat, spacious balconies, a fire hydrant system, a rainwater harvesting system, a small commercial centre, and a separate five-storey parking facility.
The project's protracted history, spanning nearly 15 years, highlights the perseverance and dedication of the Ludhiana Improvement Trust in bringing this transformative vision to fruition. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that have beset the Atal Apartments project, the impending approval and subsequent construction phase offer a glimmer of hope for the city's residents and stakeholders, who eagerly await the realization of this ambitious endeavour.
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