NOIDA: The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has raised the minimum plot size for its housing scheme aimed at the informal sector and lower-income groups from 30 sqm to 40 sqm. This adjustment, stemming from an internal survey of an earlier proposal approved by the board in June, is designed to offer over 3,800 residential plots in sectors 17, 18, and 20.
Officials indicated that the survey determined that 30 sqm plots were impractical according to current building regulations and construction practices in the area. Smaller plot sizes would inhibit safe vertical development and functional layouts. In contrast, a 40 sqm plot allows for superior design efficiency and better structural comfort, aligning with standards set by entities like the Ghaziabad Development Authority.
The proposed raise in the income ceiling for eligibility has been increased from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. Officials stated that the previous income limit excluded many potential beneficiaries, particularly workers in emerging industrial clusters along the Yamuna Expressway and in related manufacturing and logistics sectors, who, while not formally employed, earn above Rs 3 lakh annually.
The new income threshold is more in line with benchmarks established for economically weaker sections, officials noted.
According to the revised plan, the majority of the plots will be located in Sector 18 (2,880 plots), with the remainder distributed as 455 in Sector 17 and 463 in Sector 20.
In June, it was reported that YEIDA had already allocated approximately 28,900 residential plots, varying in size from 60 sqm to 4,000 sqm, across sectors 16, 17, 18, 20, and 22D. The informal sector component was designated separately with plans for 4,288 smaller plots—524 in Sector 17, 2,335 in Pocket 6B of Sector 18, 881 in Pocket 2A of Sector 18, and 548 in Sector 20.
YEIDA officials remarked that this policy adjustment signifies a deliberate shift towards more pragmatic planning. “The goal is not merely to maximize numbers but to ensure that recipients can actually construct safe, habitable homes that meet essential living standards,” stated additional CEO Shailendra Bhatia.
The comprehensive scheme, detailing eligibility criteria, pricing, and timelines, is set to be presented to the board upon the completion of the consultant’s updated proposal.
