India, July 17 -- The Delhi government has accelerated the repair and expansion of over 7,400 Economically Weaker Section (EWS) flats at Bhalswa as part of its plan to provide upgraded housing to slum residents, Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood said on Thursday after inspecting the project site. Sood visited the housing complex to review the ongoing repair and expansion work aimed at bringing the pre-built flats in line with the standards of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). The minister had earlier inspected the site in February and directed officials to increase the carpet area of the flats to provide beneficiaries with more dignified living conditions.
Addressing officials during the inspection, Sood said the government is committed to fulfilling "Modi Ki Guarantee" by ensuring that eligible families receive improved housing. "Under the Prime Minister's guidance, the size limits for these homes have been increased. In an effort to ensure the best utilisation of taxpayers' money, the government is extending the existing structures by at least four to five square metres," he said. The minister reviewed the quality of construction, including the size of rooms and new flooring, to ensure the homes are spacious and suitable for families. Referring to delays in the project, Sood blamed the previous government for procedural hurdles and inaction. "The era of shifting blame is over, and the current administration will execute the allotments systematically in phases," he said. He said a final joint inspection of the project will be carried out with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta before the flats are allotted. "Following the Chief Minister's feedback, final guidance will be taken from the Union Home Minister and senior leaders," he added.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.