Delhi Master Plan: 40 lakh homes, more rental housing and smaller flats proposed

The Delhi Master Plan for 2047 anticipates a need for approximately 40 million new homes, driven by population growth, smaller household sizes, and ongoing urban expansion. Affordable housing is expected to play a key role, with developers encouraged to construct flats ranging from 25 to 60 square meters. The plan aims to stimulate housing availability through several strategies, including new construction, redevelopment of existing areas, regeneration of planned residential zones, and the expansion of affordable rental housing options.

Key components of the plan include incentivizing the development of student and young worker hostels, dormitories with shared accommodations, and dedicated worker housing to help keep rents low. The strategy also focuses on incentivizing the use of land pooling, where multiple landowners can combine their properties for development, as well as Transit-Oriented Development zones around Metro stations and other major public transportation hubs. Both high-density and low-density areas will be targeted to maximize housing supply.

Another important aspect of the plan is the reduction of illegal colonies and illegal constructions. Penalties such as higher property, electricity, and water charges may be imposed to discourage unauthorized settlements. The plan also suggests encouraging use of eco-friendly materials, innovative construction techniques, and disaster-resilient structures to ensure sustainability and timely completion of projects.

Additionally, the government aims to rehabilitate notified JJ clusters through in-situ slum rehabilitation or other area improvement programs, and relocation to vacant Economic Weaker Section housing if necessary. The plan also emphasizes the importance of improving the quality of existing housing stock, infrastructure, and public amenities in regeneration projects.