New Delhi: Paving the way for planned redevelopment of old group housing societies following Centre’s notification of MPD-2047, Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has initiated discussions with federations and Cooperative Group Housing Societies (CGHS) on redeveloping ageing complexes in the city.On Monday, DDA held an awareness meeting to familiarise residents and stakeholder organisations with redevelopment provisions under the new master plan. RWAs raised several concerns and sought resolution of these issues before the exercise is taken forward.The redevelopment will allow older housing areas to accommodate more people, while ensuring that supporting infrastructure keeps pace, officials said.DDA has divided group housing societies into two categories — transit-oriented development (TOD) and non-TOD areas. In TOD areas, societies on plots of 2,000 sqm or more along roads at least 18 metres wide will be eligible for a FAR of 500. Of the permissible FAR, 65% must be reserved for residential use, including dwelling and affordable housing units capped at 100 sqm built-up area per unit.Of the remaining 35% non-mandatory FAR, 25% can be used for studio apartments, larger housing units, guest houses or commercial office spaces. Another 15% of the proposed FAR must be physically constructed for the economically weaker section (EWS) and lower-income category housing.Residents, however, questioned whether the provisions would address the requirements of existing members.Sanjay Bansal of Aravali Cooperative Group Housing Society, Sector 13, Rohini, said residents living in larger flats may not agree to shift to 100-sqm units. “Just 25% large-sized housing will not accommodate all people presently living in the society. Also, many may not be comfortable with 15% FAR being given for EWS. The policy also permits commercialisation, which could affect the character of peaceful residential societies,” he said.Surender Gupta of Vinobha Apartments, Sector 9, Rohini, said his society falls in the TOD category. “DDA’s move is welcome, but why should the registrar of societies play a role in increasing membership? Why is the authority not talking about making societies freehold? Also, how will redevelopment start if 30% of people refuse to move?” he asked.Officials said redevelopment has remained a long-standing demand in housing societies. Residents of Rohini, Indraprastha Extension, Patparganj and other parts have raised concerns over deteriorating buildings and civic infrastructure.“DDA’s approach focuses not only on redevelopment of ageing buildings but also on strengthening surrounding infrastructure and public facilities. The framework will include improved water supply, sewerage, roads, open spaces and other amenities to meet future requirements,” said the officials.Ritu Goel, BJP councillor from Rohini F and DDA member from MCD, said there are around 70 societies in her ward that may become difficult to inhabit over the next decade. “RWAs have been approaching me to pursue the issue. But several concerns need to be addressed first, including who will pay rent when residents are shifted during reconstruction,” she said.The officials said MPD-2047 provides a broader planning framework to address these concerns and facilitate more efficient use of existing urban areas.
