The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has approved a policy allowing the reconstruction and redevelopment of old two-storey dwelling units built on individual plots under its earlier housing schemes. The decision addresses the redevelopment of residential properties that are more than five decades old and, in several cases, have structural deficiencies.
The policy initially covers housing schemes in areas such as Naraina Vihar, Green Park and Lajpat Nagar, with plans to extend the framework to other similarly placed housing schemes across Delhi.
Redevelopment Framework for Old Housing Units
Several two-storey residential units were developed under the Master Plan Delhi-1962. Unlike vacant residential plots, these built-up properties did not previously have a uniform redevelopment framework.
Under the new policy, owners of eligible two-storey units can seek redevelopment rights similar to those applicable to vacant plots. The redevelopment will be subject to prevailing planning and building regulations.
The applicable requirements will include plot size, Floor Area Ratio (FAR), ground coverage, building height, structural safety, fire safety and compliance with the Unified Building Bye-Laws. Applicants will also have to pay applicable conversion charges, betterment levy and scrutiny fees based on plot size.
Building Approval Process to Be Simplified
The DDA has also approved amendments to the Unified Building Bye-Laws 2016 to reduce the number of permissions required for building plan approvals.
The amendments will remove the requirement for prior no-objection certificates from several departments, including the Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Delhi Jal Board, Chief Inspector of Factories and Forest Department, where applicable.
The move is intended to reduce procedural requirements and make building approvals more streamlined while retaining compliance with applicable construction and safety provisions.
Land Use Change Approved for Narela Metro Depot
Alongside the redevelopment policy, the DDA approved a change in land use for a 19.6-hectare plot in Narela Sub-City. The land, previously designated for recreational and public and semi-public use, will be converted to transportation use for development of a metro depot associated with the Rithala-Kundli Corridor.
The proposed metro expansion is expected to improve connectivity for residents in Narela and adjoining areas and reduce dependence on road-based transport. Improved connectivity could also support development in residential, hospitality, retail and service sectors around the sub-city.
The approved land-use change will be sent to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for issuance of the final gazette notification.
The DDA’s redevelopment policy and building approval amendments could provide a framework for the renewal of ageing residential properties while reducing procedural requirements for eligible property owners.
