Uttar Pradesh Government Implements Urban Redevelopment Policy 2026
The Department of Urban Development and Planning in Lucknow issued a crucial order on Monday, formally implementing the Uttar Pradesh Urban Redevelopment Policy-2026. This landmark policy establishes a comprehensive framework for the systematic redevelopment of buildings that have surpassed 25 years of age, with the dual objectives of ensuring structural safety and maximizing space utilization across urban centers.
Addressing Structural Risks and Urban Inefficiency
A government spokesperson emphasized the urgent need for this initiative, stating that lakhs of old apartments and group housing societies across Uttar Pradesh have become structurally compromised over time. "Residing in such buildings has become increasingly hazardous, while the land beneath them remains significantly underutilized," the official explained. "The new policy is designed to transform these aging, inefficient premises, thereby revitalizing the urban landscape."
The scheme, which has already received formal clearance from the state Cabinet, focuses on strengthening existing infrastructure deemed "old and unsafe." Its implementation is expected to catalyze the construction of better-planned, modern buildings while simultaneously generating substantial new employment opportunities within the construction, real estate, and allied sectors.
Policy Scope and Eligibility Criteria
The policy mandates redevelopment for all public and private projects that are either at least 25 years old or have been declared unsafe following a structural audit. However, it includes specific provisions and exclusions:
- For housing societies or apartment owners' associations, the redevelopment process will only commence with the consent of two-thirds of its members.
- Land parcels smaller than 1,500 square meters and individual, standalone houses are explicitly excluded from the policy's purview.
- The policy does not apply to Nazul land (government-owned land), land allotted on leasehold basis, or land under the jurisdiction of Improvement Trusts.
Three-Pronged Implementation Framework
The Uttar Pradesh Urban Redevelopment Policy-2026 outlines three distinct models for executing redevelopment projects:
- Direct Government Execution: Projects undertaken directly by a designated government agency.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model: Projects involving collaboration between the government and private developers. Under this model, a tripartite agreement will be signed between the government agency, the private developer, and the resident society, clearly delineating the responsibilities of each party.
- Society-Led Redevelopment: Projects where the housing society or association undertakes the redevelopment independently.
Project Management and Resident Provisions
To ensure systematic execution, the policy requires a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for every redevelopment initiative. A standard project completion timeline of three years has been established, with a provision for a maximum extension of two years under special circumstances.
The government has also mandated provisions for residents displaced during construction. Affected individuals will be provided with either alternative temporary housing or equivalent rental compensation for the duration of the work.
Flexibility for Timely Completion
Recognizing potential hurdles, the policy incorporates flexibility measures. "Upon approval from the relevant board, certain conditions may be relaxed on a case-by-case basis to facilitate the timely completion of projects," the official added. Furthermore, permission has been granted to amalgamate two or more adjacent plots for redevelopment, enabling more integrated and efficient urban planning outcomes.
This comprehensive policy marks a significant step towards modernizing Uttar Pradesh's urban infrastructure, prioritizing citizen safety, and promoting optimal land use through structured redevelopment.
