Affordable housing is a critical issue in urban areas, especially for the urban poor and migrant workers who often struggle to find decent accommodation at reasonable prices. To address this challenge, the Delhi Development Authority has launched the Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHC) scheme, which aims to promote affordable rental housing in India’s national capital, Delhi.
Overview of the ARHC Scheme
The ARHC scheme is a sub-scheme under the larger Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY), which is a comprehensive initiative by the Government of India to provide affordable housing to the urban poor by the year 2022. The ARHC scheme specifically targets the development of rental housing options for those in need. It is subject to approval by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, which oversees the implementation and regulation of housing-related policies in India.
Development of Affordable Rental Housing
Under the ARHC scheme, both private and government-owned lands can be utilized for the construction of affordable rental housing complexes. This dual approach allows for the expansion of housing options by leveraging resources from both the public and private sectors. The scheme is designed to create a conducive environment for developers to participate in the provision of affordable rental housing through various incentives.
Benefits for Urban Poor and Migrant Workers
One of the primary objectives of the ARHC scheme is to cater to the housing needs of the urban poor, including migrant workers who migrate to the city in search of employment opportunities. By offering affordable rental options, the scheme aims to reduce the financial burden on these groups and provide them with a stable and secure living environment. This is particularly important as the lack of affordable housing often leads to the proliferation of slums and other informal settlements that are characterized by poor living conditions.
Commercial Use within ARHC Complexes
The ARHC scheme also addresses the economic aspect of housing by allowing developers to use up to a maximum of 10 percent of the permissible floor area ratio (FAR) for commercial purposes. This integration of commercial space within the residential complexes serves multiple purposes. It not only makes the projects financially more viable for developers but also provides residents with easy access to essential services and employment opportunities. This commercial space can include shops, community centers, and other facilities that benefit the residents and the surrounding community.
Impact on Urban Development
The introduction of the ARHC scheme is expected to have a significant impact on urban development in Delhi. By encouraging the construction of affordable rental housing, the city can better manage its growing population and the associated demand for housing. Furthermore, the scheme has the potential to stimulate economic growth by creating construction jobs, attracting investment, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
In conclusion, the Affordable Rental Housing Complexes scheme represents a strategic effort by the Delhi Development Authority to make affordable housing more accessible to the urban poor and migrant workers in the capital. Through partnerships with private developers and the utilization of government land, the scheme seeks to alleviate the housing crisis in urban areas and contribute to the sustainable development of the city.
