Villages get priority, finally

Grappling with the ongoing farmer agitation in Greater Noida and parts of Noida for months, the authorities have decided to take the development route to quell discontent.

Grappling with the ongoing farmer agitation in Greater Noida and parts of Noida for months, the authorities have decided to take the development route to quell discontent.

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Officials have realised that focussing on land issues alone won't buy peace in the long run. They are preparing a village master plan before big-ticket infrastructure development plans can be undertaken in villages.

The focus will shift from mere road and drain construction to enhancing civic, health and school infrastructure.

"All the three development authorities in Noida, Greater Noida and Yamuna Expressway have decided to work more towards rural development. There is no cap on funds for the purpose. Initially, we will spend Rs 200 crore," said Noida chairperson Mohinder Singh.

Singh said school buildings in villages are dilapidated. "There is no water supply at schools. There is not even adequate space in most schools. We have changed our policies, and we will maintain such installations," said Singh. "Similarly, primary health centre buildings in various villages are in bad shape. Authorities will repair these buildings and see to it that villagers get proper health services," added Singh.

"The district administration also plans to install water purifiers at 125 government schools. Now that the development authorities are funding projects, schools will benefit," said Dharamvir Singh, basic shiksha adhikari.

Vijay Deepak Verma, chief medical officer, Gautam Budha Nagar, said such model of development is needed.

The authority also plans to prepare a master plan for villages. An exercise will soon be undertaken to assess population, need for drinking water, drainage facilities, electricity, roads, etc. The planning department has been directed to get down to business.

Peripheral roads will act as boundaries between rural and urban pockets. Water supply for these two different segments is being separated.

By 2013, the authority promises to ensure sewer lines and Ganga water in all urban villages. Separate water reservoirs and electricity feeders are being set up for rural clusters. The authority will ensure streetlights in these areas.