WB govt takes up special drive for 'Nijo Griha' scheme

Kolkata, Sep 26: West Bengal government has launched a special drive to expedite construction of houses under the 'Nijo Griha' scheme for the urban poor.

In the first phase, Rs 472.00 crore has been allocated to 70 urban local bodies to implement the programme, while another Rs 31 crore allocated for 38 urban local bodies for the same, officials said.

Based on the project's progress, further funds will be considered for release, they said. In urban local bodies the target beneficiaries have been selected through a survey after which preparation of Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) and Detailed Project Report (DPR) has commenced.

The municipal affairs department said efforts have been taken into consideration to incorporate earthquake resistant parameters in planning and designing these dwelling units.

The newly-constructed units will comprise a bedroom, a multi-purpose room, a water closet with bathroom and a kitchen with floor area of about 25.77 sq mtr.

The unit cost of the dwelling units have been put at Rs 3.68 lakh, officials said. Option for enhancement of existing pucca dwelling unit may also be considered under this programme, if the beneficiary so desires.

The government has set a target of construction of 70,000 dwelling units in the next few years.

PTI