Jammu: In a significant push towards addressing the growing housing requirements of the people of Jammu & Kashmir, the Chief Secretary chaired a meeting Thursday to assess the progress and future roadmap of housing colonies being developed by the Jammu & Kashmir Housing Board (JKHB), Jammu Development Authority (JDA), and Srinagar Development Authority (SDA). The review focused on ongoing, proposed, and planned housing projects, with particular emphasis on sustainable development, affordability, and timely execution through innovative models such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Self-Financing Schemes (SFS) in both Kashmir and Jammu division. The meeting besides Commissioner Secretary, H&UDD was attended by Vice-Chairmen, JDA/SAD; MD, J&K Housing Board; CEO, CiTAG and other concerned officers.
Addressing the meeting Chief Secretary highlighted the urgent need for government intervention in housing due to the rapid decrease in urban land and rising prices, which have made home ownership unaffordable for many, particularly middle- and lower-income groups. He advocated for the development of planned housing colonies to ensure accessibility and affordability. The strategic role of public housing projects was emphasized, noting that high-density developments by government agencies can optimize land use and lower costs, making housing more accessible. A coordinated, multi-agency approach is essential for achieving affordable housing, as isolated efforts are insufficient. The Chief Secretary pointed out the importance of leveraging public-private partnerships (PPP), self-financing schemes, and vertical development to address land scarcity while ensuring quality construction and sustainability. Mandeep Kaur, Commissioner Secretary of H&UDD, reinforced the social importance of secure and affordable housing for stability and well-being, detailing past efforts and future plans for housing projects across various districts. Shahbaz Ahmed Mirza, MD of the Housing Board, reported on the development of multiple housing colonies in Jammu and Kashmir aimed at diverse income groups, with several land parcels identified for PPP development. He mentioned ongoing market assessments to ensure the viability of these projects. Additionally, housing colonies under the Self-Financing Scheme have been approved, featuring modern amenities for residents. Rupesh Kumar, VC of the Jammu Development Authority, provided updates on JDA Heights Phase-II, which is nearing completion, and the Transport Nagar improvement project, which includes modern residential facilities. He also noted the resolution of legacy issues that have unlocked valuable land assets. Mohammad Rafi, VC of the Srinagar Development Authority, discussed progress on Shehjar Heights Phase-II and the development of a Satellite Township at Rakhi Gund Aksha, which has received significant public interest. The government is focusing on sustainable, net-zero housing colonies in line with India’s COP-26 commitments, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and climate-resilient infrastructure. The CEO of CiTAG mentioned efforts to facilitate PPP-based housing and commercial projects, ensuring financial viability and inclusive development. The Chief Secretary concluded by stressing the importance of timely execution and quality construction in housing projects, which are vital for urban development and social well-being in Jammu and Kashmir.
