NEW DELHI: Residents in ‘jhuggi-jhopri’ (JJ) clusters are set to benefit from improved living conditions as the Delhi government partners with the National Buildings Construction Corporation Limited (NBCC) to refurbish approximately 18,000 flats and upgrade civic infrastructure across multiple clusters.
An official from the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) stated that both DUSIB and NBCC will commence repair and refurbishment works for the dilapidated flats plagued by poor maintenance, structural damage, and insufficient facilities.
“The focus will be on renovating existing flats and enhancing basic infrastructure within the clusters. About 18,000 flats have been earmarked for repairs,” the official noted.
As part of the improvement plan, roads in the clusters will be widened, new cemented pavements will be laid, and drainage systems will be upgraded to prevent waterlogging during monsoons. Additionally, public amenities like separate toilets for women will be established.
Currently, NBCC is drafting a detailed project plan, with work set to commence once necessary approvals are secured, according to the official.
In recent years, many JJ clusters have grappled with deteriorating housing, blocked drains, poor sanitation practices, and narrow lanes, which hinder access for emergency services.
Areas such as Wazirpur, Seelampur, and sections of West Delhi have been particularly affected by unsafe structures and sewage overflow, especially during the rainy season.
Additionally, numerous families residing in government-built flats under rehabilitation schemes have raised concerns about wall cracks, leaking roofs, and a lack of essential civic amenities, leading to worries about long-term maintenance.
This latest initiative underscores an increasing focus on enhancing living conditions in informal settlements, the official explained.
During a recent Republic Day event, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta hosted a lunch for slum dwellers at her residence, ‘Jan Sewa Sadan,’ and inaugurated development projects worth Rs 327 crore for JJ clusters throughout the city.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of residents in these areas and announced a budget allocation of Rs 144 crore for various development initiatives.
According to a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, administrative approval has been granted for Rs 225 crore for 476 public convenience works, with work orders worth Rs 81 crore already issued for 214 projects.
The official mentioned that this new infrastructure initiative aims to fill long-standing gaps in civic facilities in JJ clusters, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for thousands of families residing in these settlements.
