The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has commenced a critical survey to clarify ownership status in the aging Tulsi Niketan housing complex, a necessary step before the planned large-scale redevelopment of the area.
This initiative comes in the aftermath of a tragic structural collapse that claimed two lives, underscoring the urgent need for intervention in one of the city’s most dilapidated residential zones. Located near the Delhi border adjacent to Wazirabad Road, Tulsi Niketan was originally developed in 1989-90, primarily to accommodate economically weaker sections (EWS) and lower-income groups (LIG). The complex consists of 2,292 flats along with commercial shops and other facilities. However, decades of waterlogging, inadequate maintenance, and structural neglect have rendered the buildings unsafe, culminating recently in a fatal balcony collapse that killed a young child and his relative.
Officials confirm that the survey aims to identify the exact occupancy and ownership patterns within Tulsi Niketan. The endeavour will establish whether residents are original allottees, tenants, power of attorney holders, or unauthorised occupants. This clarification is essential for the redevelopment framework, as ownership ambiguity has historically stalled progress on such projects. A senior official from the GDA stated that the survey is being conducted by a tri-agency team comprising representatives from the GDA, the municipal corporation, and the district urban development authority. The team is expected to complete the exercise by the end of May, after which the redevelopment cost and implementation strategy will be finalised.
The redevelopment blueprint envisages collaboration with private developers under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, a strategy the GDA hopes will inject necessary expertise and financial resources into the project. An expression of interest has already been floated to attract developers willing to take on the challenge. Preliminary estimates peg the redevelopment cost at ₹700–1,000 crore, a substantial investment aimed at rebuilding safer, modern, and sustainable housing infrastructure. Historical studies accentuate the gravity of Tulsi Niketan’s structural decline. An IIT Roorkee assessment in 2009 highlighted that the buildings’ condition had severely worsened due to prolonged neglect. Later, in 2018, an expert study by a reputed university recommended complete dismantling and fresh construction over costly retrofitting, as the structural integrity was beyond repair.
Currently, out of 2,292 flats, around 2,255 remain occupied, but the majority of residents possess power of attorney or informal documents, complicating formal ownership claims. This factor has previously hindered redevelopment efforts, notably during a similar plan attempted in 2019. Residents express cautious optimism about redevelopment but emphasise a phased approach to minimise displacement and disruption. The residents’ welfare association has proposed that redevelopment should proceed in stages, beginning with the construction of a new tower to accommodate those relocated from dilapidated structures, followed by systematic clearance and rebuilding of the remaining flats. Such an approach aligns with sustainable urban redevelopment principles, mitigating social upheaval and allowing communities to retain their local networks.
The proposed redevelopment also intersects with broader concerns around sustainable urban renewal. The GDA faces the challenge of not only rebuilding structures but doing so in an eco-friendly manner that addresses climate resilience, gender inclusivity, and equitable access. Given Tulsi Niketan’s low-lying geography and vulnerability to monsoon flooding, the redevelopment plans must incorporate effective water management systems and green building standards to prevent recurrence of past issues. Furthermore, the project presents a crucial opportunity to create gender-neutral, accessible housing designs and public spaces that foster social inclusion. Thoughtful planning can transform Tulsi Niketan into a model for equitable urban regeneration, where infrastructure upgrades dovetail with enhanced quality of life for residents.
In balancing financial feasibility with social responsibility, the GDA’s PPP framework must ensure that private sector involvement does not compromise affordability or resident rights. Transparent and participatory governance will be key to maintaining public trust as the redevelopment progresses. As Ghaziabad moves toward this critical juncture, the success of Tulsi Niketan’s revival will hinge on the meticulous resolution of ownership ambiguities and careful stakeholder engagement. The redevelopment initiative embodies both the promise and complexity of transforming ageing urban housing into sustainable, resilient communities fit for the challenges of the 21st century.
Also Read : Uttar Pradesh Unveils New Private Health Infrastructure Plan
