Delhi Government Greenlights Renovation of 2,416 EWS Flats to Revive 50,000 Homes

The Delhi government has given the green signal for the renovation of 2,416 ready-to-move-in flats in Sawda Ghevra, along with directing officials to expedite the handover process to the rightful beneficiaries. This decision was made at the 34th meeting of the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. She emphasized the importance of completing all refurbishment work by January 15 and assured full financial support for welfare-linked housing efforts. “No shortage of budget will be allowed for welfare schemes,” the CM stated.

In addition to Sawda Ghevra, the board has approved the renovation of flats at various locations such as Sultanpuri, Dwarka, and Bhalswa. These approvals are part of a larger initiative to revamp nearly 50,000 EWS flats that have been built under different rehabilitation schemes over the years. These flats, lying vacant, are planned to be given to low-income families residing in slum clusters.

The board also reviewed the progress of infrastructure-related projects, including the launch of the Atal Canteen network and the upgrading of basic services for economically weaker households. The meeting was attended by Ashish Sood, the Minister of Urban Development, board members, and senior officials.

CM Gupta instructed that every DUSIB settlement must incorporate essential public amenities such as daily-need shops, local vegetable markets, community halls, Arogya Mandirs, sewage treatment plants, waste management systems, adequate water supply, internal roads, parks, power lines, and sewerage networks. This comprehensive approach aims to make the colonies fully functional and livable.

Another significant decision was the approval to establish Ayushman Arogya Mandirs at 124 DUSIB locations. According to Gupta, this step will significantly enhance the availability of basic healthcare services in slum clusters.

Furthermore, she directed the officers to create a layout for e-rickshaw charging stations and ensure there is sufficient parking space in areas set aside for the poor. It is expected that revised floor plans of current and new housing projects will be shared at the next board meeting.

Minister of Urban Development Ashish Sood emphasized the need for an integrated approach in future housing projects. He requested the DUSIB CEO to ensure that housing, health facilities, sanitation systems, and livelihood-support amenities are planned together, not in isolation, so that new and renovated colonies can be operational from the very beginning.