New Delhi: The Delhi government has started preparations for a major slum rehabilitation initiative aimed at providing permanent housing to economically weaker sections (EWS).
The government’s target is to allot around 35,000 EWS flats before the next Assembly elections by making long-vacant housing units fit for occupation.
The move is expected to provide permanent shelter to thousands of families currently living in slum areas across the national capital.
Thousands of Flats Built Under Housing Schemes Remained Vacant for Years
The flats were constructed by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) and the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) with support from the Central Government under various housing schemes.
Most of these flats were completed by 2015-16, but allotment could not take place over the last decade.
Due to prolonged vacancy and lack of regular maintenance, many flats have deteriorated and require repairs before they can be allotted to beneficiaries.
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Government Approves Repair and Redevelopment Plan for Vacant Flats
The Delhi government has now approved a roadmap for repairing and restoring these housing units.
In the first phase, repair work will be carried out on flats located in areas including:
- Dwarka
- Bawana
- Pooth Khurd
- Sultanpuri
- Other identified locations across Delhi
Officials said that nearly half of the vacant flats require extensive repair work before they can become suitable for residential use.
Repair Work to Include Basic Infrastructure Improvements
The renovation process will focus on restoring essential facilities and improving living conditions.
The repair work will include:
- Electrical systems
- Water supply facilities
- Sewerage arrangements
- Wall plastering
- Doors and windows
- Other basic amenities
The objective is to ensure that the flats are fully prepared before being handed over to eligible beneficiaries.
Flats to Be Allotted in Phased Manner After Beneficiary Verification
After completion of repair work, the government plans to begin the allotment process in phases.
Authorities are working on:
- Finalising eligibility criteria
- Identifying deserving beneficiaries
- Preparing the allotment procedure
The government aims to ensure that the housing reaches families who genuinely require permanent shelter.
Focus on Providing Dignified Housing to Slum Residents
Officials said that the initiative is not only about utilising unused housing stock but also about providing safe and dignified living conditions to slum residents.
Through this rehabilitation plan, the Delhi government aims to improve housing security for economically weaker families and support the city’s long-term urban development goals.
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