Under AMRUT 2.0, the Indian government is set to roll out urban infrastructure projects worth INR 5,000 crore, focusing on water supply, sewage treatment, and urban sustainability. This initiative is part of the NDA's 100-day agenda, targeting the extension of tap water to all homes in 4,800 statutory towns. With a total outlay of INR 2.99 lakh crore, the program's progress has been uneven, with only 50% of projects initiated. The projects emphasize long-term benefits like groundwater recharge and urban flood mitigation, aiming to enhance the quality of life for millions of citizens.Read more

In response to environmental concerns, the government has reinstated the Natural Conservation Zone (NCZ) in the draft Regional Plan 2041 for the National Capital Region (NCR), protecting vital ecological areas such as the Aravali Ridge. The plan preserves the original 1992 definition of the Aravali range, preventing non-forest activities and safeguarding 179 sq km from development. The move follows strong public support, with over 4,000 submissions urging the restoration of NCZ provisions. As the draft plan nears finalisation, the focus remains on balancing environmental conservation with urban development in the NCR.Read more

The Maharashtra government has proposed limiting construction to 65% on plots in Special Development Zones (SDZs), down from the previously allowed 80%, particularly in areas once designated as mangroves and saltpan lands. This move, aimed at allocating more space for open amenities, follows the abandonment of affordable housing plans in these sensitive regions. While the proposal seeks to improve city planning, environmental activists warn of the risks to Mumbai's ecosystem and increased flood vulnerability. Public feedback is invited on the new regulations, highlighting the ongoing debate between urban development and environmental sustainability in Mumbai.Read more

The Chhattisgarh government has requested central approval for over 15 lakh houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) (PMAY-G), with a special focus on families affected by Maoist violence and those of surrendered Maoists. During a meeting with Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the need for targeted housing in 15 districts facing Left-Wing Extremism. The initiative aims to provide stability through housing, particularly in rural areas with acute shortages. The central government is expected to increase funding under PMAY-G to address rising construction costs.Read more

The Haryana Cabinet, under Chief Minister Nayeb Singh Saini, has approved key changes to the Mukhya Mantri Shehri Awas Yojana (MMSAY). The amendments extend payment timelines for beneficiaries of 1 Marle (30 sq. yards) plots, giving them three years instead of six months to pay INR 80,000. The policy also allows for penalty-free refunds and plot transfer in case of a beneficiary's death. These changes aim to support urban families earning up to INR 1.80 lakhs annually, benefiting 15,250 low-income households across fourteen districts.Read more

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is cracking down on neglected vacant properties, with fines of INR 2 per square foot for unkempt plots. Property owners will receive notices if their sites lack cleanliness, and repeat offenders may face legal action. This initiative aims to curb illegal dumping, improve public health, and enhance neighbourhood quality. Simultaneously, the BBMP is intensifying efforts to combat mosquito-borne diseases like dengue, deploying 600 fogging machines and 618 sprayers across the city as daily case numbers stabilise. The BBMP's actions reflect its commitment to fostering a cleaner and healthier Bengaluru.Read more

The Punjab and Haryana High Court heard a plea challenging the Haryana government's policy allowing stilt-plus-four (S+4) floor constructions in Gurgaon's residential areas. The Gurgaon Citizens Council, which filed the petition in the year 2021, argued that the policy was reinstated on July 2, 2024, despite an ongoing court case and a pending expert committee review. During the August 8, 2024, hearing, the government assured the court it would halt further approvals for S+4 constructions until the next hearing on August 22. The court directed the government to submit all the relevant policy documents by the aforementioned date.Read more

Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced plans to amend the Regularisation of Unauthorised Construction Act to include structures on government-allotted land. This move addresses local concerns and aims to safeguard homes built under the 20-point programme and similar initiatives. Sawant assured no demolitions until the amendment is enacted. Revenue Minister Atanasio Monserrate emphasised local bodies' roles in the process. The amendment, influenced by Supreme Court observations, seeks to protect vulnerable communities while ensuring housing security for Goa's residents.Read more

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is contemplating a 15-20% price increase for villas in Hunnigere, off the Nelamangala-Sondekoppe Road, due to rising construction costs. Prices for 3 BHK villas may rise from INR 75 lakh to INR 85-90 lakh, and 4 BHK villas from INR 1.10 crore to INR 1.15-1.20 crore. Additionally, prices for 320 one-bedroom flats have increased from INR 13.50 lakh to INR 15 lakh. This move, set for finalisation in an upcoming board meeting, has sparked concerns among prospective buyers about affordability amidst ongoing inflation and market conditions.Read more

Visakhapatnam's housing initiative is progressing as District Collector Harendira Prasad directs the Housing Department to update the status of over 71,000 houses. Out of 1.39 lakh planned houses, approximately 1.29 lakh have been sanctioned, with 23,995 completed. The initiative spans 138 rural and 64 urban layouts. Prasad emphasises a 100-day action plan, daily progress reports, and geo-tagging for transparency. The move addresses the growing demand for affordable housing, especially post-COVID-19, and aims to improve living conditions for residents through efficient and accountable project management.Read more