East Kidwai Nagar revamp under NGT scanner - The Hindu

Monday, November 17, 2014

East Kidwai Nagar revamp under NGT scanner - The Hindu

NEW DELHI, November 17, 2014

AKANKSHA JAIN

Is NBCC's Rs 4,000 cr ‘architectural masterpiece’ environmental friendly?

As the swanky Rs.4, 264-crore vision for redevelopment of East Kidwai Nagar takes place the question on its adverse impact on the existing infrastructure and resources in the area — both natural and manmade — continues to loom. The project by the Ministry of Urban Development proposes to upgrade the pitiful matchbox residential accommodation of government employees by creating a self-sustainable sub-city.

Defence Colony resident Rajeev Suri moved the National Green Tribunal (NGT) seeking stalling of the construction work claiming the project has many environmental hazards and will put additional burden on resources in the already densely-populated area.

A NGT Bench headed by Justice P. Jyothimani reserved its order after hearing extensive arguments from Mr. Suri and project implementing agency National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC), which maintained that the construction was being carried out in the most environmentally-sustainable manner.

The project, comprising 4,747 residential units from type II-VII in 7-15 storey blocks apart from one lakh square meter of commercial area covering 86 acres in the heart of the city adjoining AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, Dilli Haat and INA Market, is expected to be completed in about five years.

Mr. Suri argued that all the soil being dug out for a three-level underground parking was being wasted. He also reiterated that it would affect the groundwater level, as water will not be able to percolate or recharge the aquifers. He said many trees were also being felled.

The NBCC, on the other hand, contended that it has left enough green area in the project. It also displayed the salient features of its project and said it has included measures such as water recycling, efficient use of electrical and solar energy etc. The Bench also asked the government agencies to place all necessary clearances for the work before it and also queried if the digging might pose any threat to the neighbouring buildings in the area.

On commercial space being given to shops, the NGT said it will make sure no such thing happens, while the NBCC counsel said the commercial complex comprises office space for ministries, government departments, PSUs, etc. The NBCC also stressed that it has taken care to retain green area around the Darya Khan tomb nearby by planning a central park. It said it has already started booking space and has received Rs.1,385.36 crore as booking amount.