Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board (JKHB) has taken significant steps to address the housing needs in Jammu and Kashmir by initiating development of new residential Projects in Jammu and Kashmir by identifying 11 housing colonies land parcels through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, as per news report of Daily Excelsior. JKHB, originally established to provide “Affordable Shelter for All,” is now actively working towards fulfilling its mission.

New Residential Projects in Jammu and Kashmir: Key Housing Colonies Identified

JKHB has identified multiple land parcels across Jammu and Kashmir for the development of housing colonies. These projects are aimed at improving affordable housing availability and meeting the increasing demand for residential spaces.

• Birpur near Bari Brahmana: A Mass Housing Colony is planned on 45 kanals of land.
• Padgampura in Pulwama: Another Mass Housing Colony will be developed on 30 kanals of land.
• Watapora in Bandipora: An Integrated Mass Housing Colony is planned on 200 kanals.
• Bhalwal in Jammu: 85 kanals have been allocated for flatted accommodations for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS).

In addition to these, land has also been earmarked for various other projects:

• Changran in Kathua: 81 kanals for flatted and plotted accommodations.
• Chatterhama in Srinagar: 353 kanals for the development of a Housing Colony.
• Bakoora in Ganderbal: 214 kanals for housing colony and flatted accommodations.
• Chak Bhalwal: 248 kanals for a Housing Colony.
• Chowadhi, Jammu: 69 kanals for housing development.
• Kanuyian in Poonch: 16 kanals for a Housing Colony.

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Role of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in Development

The JKHB has shifted from its previous Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model to the PPP approach for executing these housing projects. Under this model, the selected developers will be responsible for project development, construction, operation, and maintenance for a specified period. This comprehensive approach ensures that all infrastructure requirements are met, from obtaining approvals and licenses to securing finances and building mandatory components.

The JKHB, on its part, will provide land free of encumbrances on a lease basis and assist in obtaining required approvals from relevant government authorities. This collaboration between the public and private sectors will help expedite the construction of housing colonies while ensuring quality control and sustainability.

Expression of Interest (EoI) and Timeline

The process of inviting firms to submit their Expression of Interest (EoI) was initiated several months ago. However, the exercise was delayed due to the imposition of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. Now, the extended date for submission of EoI is set to end on October 10, with the expressions being opened on October 12.

According to sources, the JKHB is optimistic about receiving a good response from firms interested in executing these projects under the PPP model. This approach is expected to bring in a variety of private sector expertise and investment, ultimately accelerating the development of affordable housing across the region.

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The Growing Demand for Affordable Housing in Jammu and Kashmir

The recent Demand and Survey Report highlighted the increasing need for housing in Jammu and Kashmir. The identified sites for the new housing colonies have been selected based on this growing demand and meet all criteria established under the J&K Housing Policy 2020. Additionally, all construction and development activities will adhere to the Unified Building Bye-Laws of Jammu and Kashmir.

The move to develop new housing colonies comes at a time when the demand for affordable and quality housing is on the rise. The various land parcels identified are strategically located to cater to the needs of different sections of society, including the Economically Weaker Sections and government employees. The Housing Board aims to provide homes that not only meet basic shelter requirements but also offer residents a high standard of living with modern amenities.

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Looking Ahead: A New Era for Housing Development

As the submission and review process for the EoI progresses, the JKHB is hopeful that several of these 11 projects will be taken up promptly. The public-private partnership model is expected to bring innovation and efficiency to the housing sector in Jammu and Kashmir. By collaborating with private developers, the Housing Board can expedite project timelines, maintain quality standards, and ensure that the housing colonies are developed in a way that meets the region’s unique geographical and societal needs.

The initiative by the JKHB reflects a larger trend in the Union Territory towards modernizing infrastructure and addressing the housing challenges faced by its growing population. With a clear focus on providing affordable housing and involving private sector expertise, the Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board is poised to create a lasting impact on the region’s residential landscape.

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The Jammu and Kashmir Housing Board’s decision to develop housing colonies across the Union Territory marks a significant step forward in addressing the region’s housing shortage. Through the PPP model, the Board is leveraging private sector efficiency while providing essential public support in terms of land and approvals. As the projects move forward, the residents of Jammu and Kashmir can look forward to improved housing options and a better quality of life.