The LUCKNOW Development Authority has decided to go in for massive land acquisition in view of mounting demand for its property. The development agency has put in a request with the District Magistrate’s office here for an immediate requisition of around 6,000-acre of land for developing hi-tech townships to tackle future housing needs of the people.
“Though the last date for applying is July 15, the LDA has already received 30,000 bookings for the 1,200 plots under its proposed Vibhor and Vinayak Khand scheme in Gomti Nagar Extension. It’s clear there is a great demand for plots and in the absence of more land, the department is unable to cater to the needs of the people,” said LDA Vice Chairman BB Singh. “Land prices would spiral out of control if we fail to respond to the housing needs of the people. Hence, it is imperative that a (housing) scheme be planned for the purpose,” Singh has pointed out in a letter to district magistrate Ramendra Tripathi.
Other than the 750 acre on which it has planned Vyom, Vibhor and Vinayak Khands, the LDA has no additional land under its kitty to chart out its growth. The proposal includes acquisition of 3,000 acres of land each on Hardoi-Sitapur and Sultanpur Road. The DM has been urged to issue notification under section 4/17 and 6/17 of the Land Acquisition Act for the schemes that would bring a total number of 10 villages (five on each side) within its ambit. “We have decided to hire services of the best planners in the country to prepare the layout of these schemes that would also have provisions for several group housing projects,” said Singh, adding that the name of prominent architect Hafeez Contractor was being considered for the purpose.
As for funds needed for the acquisition, the LDA VC said it would not be a problem since the development agency had sufficient money in its coffers. “In any case, only 10 per cent of the total land compensation cost is to be paid up front. This works out to Rs 20-25 crore,” said an LDA official, adding that the entire (land acquisition) process would take at least six months.
{{/usCountry}}As for funds needed for the acquisition, the LDA VC said it would not be a problem since the development agency had sufficient money in its coffers. “In any case, only 10 per cent of the total land compensation cost is to be paid up front. This works out to Rs 20-25 crore,” said an LDA official, adding that the entire (land acquisition) process would take at least six months.
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