Demand to convert DUDA into Authority

DISTRICT COLLECTOR Vivek Aggarwal has written for the second time to Urban Administration and Development Commissioner Malay Shrivastav seeking conversion of District Urban Development Agency (DUDA) into an Authority to initiate planned development at Mhow, Depalpur and Sanver and other city panchayats that are growing in terms of population and trade in Indore district.

DISTRICT COLLECTOR Vivek Aggarwal has written for the second time to Urban Administration and Development Commissioner Malay Shrivastav seeking conversion of District Urban Development Agency (DUDA) into an Authority to initiate planned development at Mhow, Depalpur and Sanver and other city panchayats that are growing in terms of population and trade in Indore district.

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The first letter was sent this April and since there was no response, Aggarwal spoke to the UAD Commissioner last week, who asked him to fax the letter for consideration. The faxed letter said that the Authority could be equipped with technical staff and other resources as against DUDA, which has no technical hand. The letter added that DUDA could be made more vibrant, powerful and independent body if converted into Authority.

If formed, the Authority would work like Indore Development Authority, which has more government representation than elected members. It will be headed by District Collector, just like development Authorities across the State that could be headed by senior officials from Indian and State Administrative Services.

At present, DUDA provides basic facilities like water supply, drainage and roads in notified slums under National Slum Development Programme.