India >> Delhi

Delhi government launches data collection for unauthorized colony development

PNT Reporter | Last Updated : 26th Mar, 2024
Synopsis

The Delhi government has initiated data collection to develop unauthorized colonies, focusing on solid waste management, road conditions, borewells, and sewer conditions. Multiplicity of agencies has been a hurdle, prompting data collection by agencies across Vidhan Sabha-wise jurisdictions. With over 30% of Delhi's population residing in illegal colonies, the government aims to regularize and redevelop 1,731 of them. Additionally, the Delhi Development Authority's PM Uday Yojana has received 4.75 lakh applications for ownership rights, though challenges like high fees and limited benefits persist. Efforts include simplifying procedures and enhancing infrastructure, with INR 900 crore allocated for upgrades in 2024-25.

10 sec backward button
play pause button
10 sec forward button
0:00
0:00
The Delhi government has initiated data collection to facilitate the development of unauthorized colonies, focusing on parameters such as solid waste management, road conditions, borewells, and sewer systems. Gathering information from various agencies, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Public Works Department, is the first step. This comprehensive plan aims to address the challenges posed by the multiplicity of agencies and streamline development efforts.

Over 30% of Delhi's population resides in illegal colonies, with 1,731 identified for regularization and redevelopment out of a total of 1,797 settlements. The data collected will aid in planning redevelopment strategies, particularly in improving sanitation and water management to enhance living conditions. Efforts are underway to address issues highlighted by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena regarding the unhygienic conditions in areas like Sangam Vihar.

The Delhi government has already made strides in infrastructure development in unauthorized colonies, investing nearly INR 5,000 crore over nine years to improve road networks, install piped water systems, and lay sewer lines. Significant progress has been made, with approximately 4,000 km of roads and streets re-laid, along with the installation of water and sewer lines spanning thousands of kilometers. With a budget allocation exceeding INR 900 crore, further upgrades are planned for the upcoming financial year, demonstrating the government's commitment to enhancing living standards in unauthorized colonies.

However, the Delhi Development Authority's (DDA) scheme for ownership rights in unauthorized colonies, the PM Uday Yojana, has faced challenges. While 4.75 lakh residents have applied for ownership rights, hurdles such as high fees and limited benefits persist. Despite efforts to motivate participation, including simplifying procedures and appointing outreach workers, the scheme's uptake has been modest. Residents cite obstacles like steep registration fees and restrictions on property usage, hindering widespread participation. Moreover, issues like limited access to loans and high interest rates further deter residents from registering their properties under the scheme.

In response, the DDA has clarified procedures and requirements for scheme participation, including accepting conveyance deeds and accommodating houses constructed using stone slabs. While authorisation slips provided under the scheme may not immediately facilitate building plan approvals, they signify progress towards providing essential benefits and infrastructure improvements in unauthorized colonies.

Plans are underway to implement master plans and building bylaws, ensuring better amenities such as improved sewer systems, green spaces, and wider roads for easier access by emergency services. Collaborative efforts with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) involve preparing and implementing road network plans for specific unauthorized colonies, such as Khirki Extension, Saroop Nagar Extension, and East Azad Nagar, with more colonies slated for inclusion in the future.

Overall, the initiatives undertaken by the Delhi government and DDA reflect a concerted effort to address the challenges faced by residents of unauthorized colonies. By focusing on data-driven planning, infrastructure development, and scheme enhancements, authorities aim to improve living conditions and pave the way for regularization and redevelopment across these settlements.

Have something to say? Post your comment

Recent Messages

Advertisement