Housing Needs

As per the Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) figures, present housing shortage amounts to 18,750 units or plots and this issue is expected to escalate as the city prepares to accommodate an additional population of 1.1 million over the next 20 years. The  gap between housing demand and supply has driven land prices to exorbitant levels. As a result, rendering homeownership has become increasingly unattainable for many, particularly among the economically weaker sections (EWS), low-income groups (LIG), and even the middle-income groups (MIG). Furthermore, land purchased on the open market often lacks basic infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems, water supply, electricity, and sanitation. This scarcity has led to widespread encroachments on riverbanks, Nallah banks, state lands, green belts and water bodies. These encroachments are a cause for exacerbating environmental degradation. To alleviate this housing crisis, the SDA aims to acquire 32,000 kanals of land over the next two decades at various identified locations. One of the key initiatives under this plan is the development of a major township at Rakh-Gund-Aksha, covering an area of 2,950 kanals (approximately 369 acres) in the northwestern outskirts of Srinagar city. This township is expected to provide 428 auctioned plots. The strategic location of the project, adjacent to the upcoming Medi City and High Court Complex, adds to its significance. The proposed township will be a comprehensive development, encompassing residential neighborhoods, commercial and business centers, offices, and recreational facilities. To ensure the successful execution of this project, the SDA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) on August 8 earlier this month. The NBCC will be responsible for detailed planning, preparing Detailed Project Reports, and providing project details, including cost estimates. However, it is important to note that the NBCC has not yet been awarded the contract for execution; the project is currently in the planning stage. The financial role of the NBCC, including Project Management Consultancy (PMC) charges, will be finalized once the DPRs and project details submitted by the NBCC are accepted by the competent authority. Upon approval of the NBCC’s proposal, the Public Sector Enterprise, under the supervision of the SDA, will undertake the planning, construction, and development works within agreed timelines. Additionally, the NBCC will assist the SDA in generating funds for the project, primarily through the sale of land parcels and built-up areas. The project is planned to be completed in a phased manner within five years from the commencement date. This initiative also aims to facilitate residents in adapting to fast-changing housing needs without consuming excessive land resources, as traditional housing often does. However, it is crucial to balance these developments with the aesthetic, topographical, and geographical considerations unique to Kashmir. Maintaining architectural tastes that resonate with the region’s cultural heritage while integrating modern housing solutions will be key to the project’s success. Also, the success of this initiative will depend on careful planning, timely execution and a commitment to sustainable and culturally sensitive development practices.