Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, has approved significant modifications to the “Jahan Jhuggi Wahin Makaan” (JJWM) scheme, a policy designed to provide in-situ rehabilitation for slum dwellers in the national capital. The policy changes, which are set to make slum redevelopment projects more financially viable, have been hailed as a game-changer for Delhi’s housing sector.
The decision, made in a Delhi Development Authority (DDA) meeting chaired by Saxena, paves the way for greater private sector participation in slum rehabilitation projects. By relaxing regulations around density, land apportionment, and Floor Area Ratio (FAR), these modifications are expected to attract more developers to take on in-situ redevelopment initiatives. As a result, more affordable housing units, as well as commercial spaces, are set to be constructed, meeting the growing demand for housing and business spaces in the city. One of the key changes involves a substantial increase in FAR, particularly for residential and commercial components. For plots larger than 2,000 square metres, the FAR has been raised from 300 to 500 for commercial developments and from 400 to 500 for residential projects. The revised policy also mandates that at least 40% of each plot’s total area will be allocated for residential purposes, ensuring that slum dwellers are accommodated within their existing locations.
Additionally, the option to club several plots within a five-kilometre radius for redevelopment has been approved, allowing developers to manage larger, more integrated projects. This will enable the construction of modern, multi-storey complexes, providing better living conditions for the urban poor while also allowing developers to build commercial spaces that make the project financially viable. This initiative, which comes just ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, promises to address both housing and social empowerment by offering slum residents ownership titles, thus providing them with stability and security. The In-Situ Slum Rehabilitation (ISR) programme aims to integrate slum dwellers into the formal urban fabric, contributing to better living standards and social mobility.
With the approved proposal now set to be forwarded to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for final notification, the government hopes to accelerate the pace of urban development and provide a significant boost to the city’s affordable housing stock. By upgrading infrastructure and providing essential public amenities, the scheme promises a brighter future for Delhi’s slum residents, marking a pivotal step towards inclusive urban growth.
