DDA begins talks to redevelop old group housing societies

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has started discussions with federations and cooperative group housing societies to redevelop ageing complexes under the new Master Plan for Delhi-2047. At a meeting on Monday, residents raised concerns about the redevelopment provisions, including the size of replacement flats, commercialisation of residential areas, and the role of the registrar of societies in increasing membership.

DDA has divided group housing societies into 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 floor area ratio (FAR) of 500. Of this, 65% must be for residential use, including affordable housing units capped at 100 sqm built-up area. Another 15% of the proposed FAR must be for economically weaker section housing. Residents questioned whether the provisions would meet their needs, with some saying occupants of larger flats may not agree to shift to smaller units. DDA officials said the redevelopment aims to strengthen infrastructure such as water supply, sewerage and roads.

The Times of India reports that DDA officials described redevelopment as a long-standing demand, while residents cited concerns about deteriorating buildings and civic infrastructure. Livemint, in a separate advisory piece, urged residents to evaluate a developer's track record, include delay compensation in agreements, and clarify rent and shifting costs before signing redevelopment deals. It noted that once residents vacate and demolition occurs, they may have limited options if the project is delayed.