The Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) ambitious condo project in Dwarka is facing significant backlash from allottees, who are voicing concerns over the incomplete status and poor construction quality of their flats. Despite these issues, the DDA has asked the buyers to pay the remaining 25% of the flat’s cost.
The controversy erupted following a social media post by the DDA on July 1, which stated that the flats at the Dwarka Golf View Condos were ready for handover. The DDA further instructed allottees to pay the outstanding 25% by August 29 to receive their possession letters, warning that a 10% interest on the total cost would be levied for any delays. In a series of letters addressed to the DDA’s chairman on April 8 and to both the DDA and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) on June 15, allottees detailed numerous construction deficiencies. The complaints included issues such as crumbling wall plaster, substandard cement and brick quality, exposed steel bars, improperly installed electrical conduits, and significant gaps around doors and windows. Additionally, there were reports of cracks, seepage on ceilings, and unstable railings on verandas.
“We feel a deep sense of betrayal and have been cheated,” lamented an anonymous allottee. Many buyers have reported paying premiums ranging from 50% to 100% for these flats. The allottees have filed a complaint with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), highlighting these concerns. A RERA official confirmed that they would investigate the complaints. “If the DDA is found faulty, we will take action according to the RERA Act,” the official stated.
The DDA claimed it had expedited the project’s completion. “Over the past two months, 1,100 labourers have been working overtime at the site. Additionally, 10 Assistant Engineers and 10 supervisors have been engaged for effective monitoring,” a DDA official said. “The project is now complete, ensuring good construction quality as per norms, with all facilities in place such as water, electricity, sewerage, lifts, park, community hall, and sewage treatment plant (STP). All statutory clearances, including RERA registration, Fire NOC, AAI NOC, and lift NOC, are also in place.” The DDA justified the demand for the remaining 25% payment by stating that the completion status of the project and the allottees’ demand for early possession necessitated the request. “The flats are ready for physical possession. Once the balance amount is paid, allottees can apply for possession of the flat. Thereafter, a possession letter will be issued, and the flat will be jointly inspected by engineering staff and the allottee. Any defects observed will be immediately rectified before the flats are handed over,” the official added.
The DDA has provided a 60-day period for payment of the balance amount, with an additional grace period of 30 days, during which the amount can be paid with a 10% interest.Despite these assurances, the allottees remain sceptical and dissatisfied, underscoring the need for greater transparency and accountability in real estate projects managed by public authorities. The situation at the Dwarka Golf View Condos serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by homebuyers and the importance of stringent regulatory oversight in the real estate sector.
