The Yamuna Expressway Authority (YEIDA) is re-examining 36 previously unsuccessful land acquisition attempts to expand its holdings and curb illegal constructions. The initiative covers over 6,317 hectares in various sectors. Challenges included farmer opposition over low compensation, leading to court stays. The survey also addresses encroachments, with notices issued to over 300 violators. Upon completion, YEIDA plans residential, group housing, and transport projects to foster regional growth. This effort aims to secure land for development, enforce proper use, and support infrastructure and economic expansion, ensuring transparent and fair processes in land management.
The Yamuna Expressway Authority (YEIDA) has initiated a survey to re-examine 36 attempts at land acquisition that were previously unsuccessful. This initiative aims to expand the Authority's land holdings and curb illegal construction activities. According to official data, the acquisition plan started in 2012 and intended to secure over 6,317 hectares of land across 36 villages. These areas span various blocks of Sectors 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, and 24.
YEIDA CEO Arun Vir Singh noted that in most cases, the land acquisition process never progressed beyond the planning stage. Several parcels of land have been acquired from these villages, but the current effort seeks to ensure that all land designated for development is properly secured. The land acquisition faced significant challenges due to opposition from farmers, who protested against low compensation rates. Many farmers took their grievances to the Allahabad High Court, resulting in stay orders that halted the acquisitions.
In response to the farmers' agitation, the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, was introduced in the Lok Sabha in September 2011 and became effective on 1 January 2014. This act aimed to provide fair compensation and transparency in land acquisition processes.
The ongoing survey also seeks to address encroachment issues and illegal land sales. Two months ago, YEIDA issued notices to over 300 encroachers in areas such as Jewar and Jahangirpur in GB Nagar, Mathura, Tappal in Aligarh, and Jhajar in Bulandshahr, instructing them to remove encroachments. To prevent further illegal activities on these lands, officials plan to erect fences and notice boards indicating the land's status.
Once the survey is completed, the Authority plans to launch various projects, including residential and group housing developments, as well as transport initiatives. These projects are expected to facilitate the region's growth and development, ensuring that land is utilised for its intended purposes.
In conclusion, YEIDA's current efforts to re-examine and secure land acquisitions represent a crucial step towards organised urban development. The initiative not only aims to expand the Authority's land bank but also to enforce proper utilisation of land, preventing illegal activities and encroachments. The subsequent launch of residential and transport projects will likely contribute to the region's infrastructure and economic growth, aligning with broader development goals. By addressing past issues and ensuring transparent processes, YEIDA is positioning itself to manage land resources better and support sustainable urban expansion.