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In an effort to safeguard the original purpose of designated knowledge institute zones, Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) has decided to temporarily halt the allocation of development permissions (DPs) for both commercial and residential projects in specific areas encompassed by the knowledge institute zone. These zones, spanning 24.1 square kilometres, are strategically located in villages such as Manipur, Godhavi, Kathwara, Unali, Ranchharda, Nasmed, Ranchhodpura, Vasanda, Badodara, and Devdi, surrounding Ahmedabad city.
Senior AUDA officials have hinted at potential amendments to the development norms within the knowledge institute zone, incorporated within the current general development control regulations (GDCR). While no official circular has been issued regarding this matter, AUDA anticipates forthcoming changes to the GDCR.
The motivation behind this decision arises from concerns that the original purpose of the knowledge institution zone was not being upheld, with instances of residential and commercial constructions sprouting within the zone's boundaries. It's important to note that the knowledge institution zone was an integral part of the development plan and the GDCR of Ahmedabad, gaining approval from the Gujarat government back in December 2014.
The inception of the Manipur-Godhavi town planning (TP) scheme, announced by AUDA on March 9, 2016, marked a pivotal moment in the process. After rigorous scrutiny and review, the draft TP scheme was endorsed by AUDA on January 19, 2017, and subsequently submitted for government approval on April 18, 2017. The appointment of a town planning officer (TPO) was finalized on June 26, 2018. However, it wasn't until 2022 that the state government granted preliminary approval for the TP scheme.
Over the past year, development permits in all lands encompassed by this TP scheme, covering a substantial 372.1 hectares, have been temporarily suspended. This suspension reflects the evolving landscape of regulations within the knowledge institute zones.
Under the old GDCR of 2014, only educational institutions were eligible for construction within the knowledge institute zones. However, a revision in 2017 expanded the scope to include residential and commercial constructions under the R-2 category. This change catalysed a surge in residential projects, particularly in areas like Manipur-Godhavi, which lies adjacent to Bopal, a rapidly expanding suburb of Ahmedabad.
Aside from the Manipur-Godhavi TP scheme, development permits have also been withheld due to the inclusion of several plots within knowledge institute zones in villages bordering the city.
The decision to pause development permits within knowledge institute zones has elicited mixed reactions from developers and landowners. Some argue that their substantial investments in these areas have been stymied by this uncertainty. They also emphasize the high demand for residential and commercial spaces in these zones due to their proximity to the city and excellent connectivity.
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