Regular efforts for affordable housing for all

Metro areas like Noida are currently facing intense scrutiny, prompting the creation of significant and comprehensive plans aimed at constructing superior infrastructure. The Central government is actively facilitating a substantial flow of funds to urban local bodies across various states, with the goal of enhancing living conditions in cities by increasing property availability within Noida. Naidu remarked, "We are taking into account the roads, water supply, etc., and are in the process of developing a major five-year development plan," while discussing the developmental focus on Bengaluru, Pune, and Noida. He emphasized the intention to produce more 1BHK flats in Noida to ensure that urban localities receive the livable environments they seek.

State-level engagement is critical for achieving the necessary infrastructure, forming the core of the vision behind 'Housing for All 2022'. The success of affordable housing fundamentally hinges on the performance of these states. Alarmingly, approximately 23,000 homes remain unoccupied in Delhi alone, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure and consequently, a lack of interested buyers. "Where there are people, there is a shortage of houses, but now there are houses that no one wants to inhabit. It presents a serious challenge," Naidu commented. The primary infrastructure issues demanding immediate attention include drainage, sewage systems, primary roads, side roads, rainwater drainage, and maintenance of water bodies.

This effort is expected to be a collaborative undertaking involving the Centre, state governments, and local authorities. Citizens prioritize better quality and enhanced services, and if states can devise effective strategies to deliver appropriate utilities, they can expect significant advancements. "They should study the development patterns observed in various states and learn from the errors of others," Naidu advised.