To transform the national Capital into a spanking Global Metropolis, Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has drawn up comprehensive infrastructural policies under the stewardship of Balvinder Kumar, DDA Vice-Chairman. Speaking to Anup Verma, Kumar, while highlighting initiatives taken by the department, also raised issues, which need to be tackled to expedite the growth process.
Excerpts:
What are the major initiatives taken during your tenure as DDA V-C?
The DDA, during this period, has made major policy changes like <g data-gr-id="59">introduction</g> of Land pooling Policy and Transit Oriented Development (TOD), modification in Master Plan 2021. The modalities for <g data-gr-id="58">operationalization</g> of the Land Pooling Policy have been formulated. With <g data-gr-id="55">implementation</g> of the policy, we will be able to construct nearly 25,000 dwelling units on <g data-gr-id="56">1,000 hectare</g> land hence there will be the possibility of constructing lakhs of new houses in the future. The TOD Policy will determine development on both sides of the Metro Rail corridors. Based on pedestrian and Non-Motorized Transport (NMT), TOD will ensure disbursal of high traffic volumes through streets. Another notable achievement is the 2014 housing scheme under which we announced 25,000 flats in which 90 per cent came under the affordable housing category.
The DDA had earlier announced a smart city project in East Delhi Area, is there any progress?
We have planned a TOD-based smart city at Karkardooma. We have signed MoU with a private company which will soon start construction work. Apart from this we are also developing a TOD based Lake View Complex near Sanjay lake in Mayur Vihar. The project will help in rejuvenating the existing lake thereby ensuring development of vacant land.
What is the future roadmap/challenges ahead for DDA?
The government of India has announced Housing For All before 2021. We wish to play our part in fulfilling this dream. Apart from housing construction, restructuring and reorganizing of the DDA, <g data-gr-id="54">revival</g> of water bodies, proper implementation of revised policy on beautification of parks among others. The DDA is constructing nearly 40,000 dwelling units which will be ready by next year. <g data-gr-id="52">Announcement</g> of a housing scheme for these under-construction flats and their successful allotment will be a key challenge.
Since allotment of flats after last housing scheme, nearly 6,000 allottees returned flats. Is the DDA planning any new scheme for returned flats?
The DDA has 6,000 returned flats and nearly 4,000 new flats. If the authority plans, it can announce a fresh draw but for now there is no such planning. As I have been transferred to Coal Ministry,
my successor will take the call on it.