(Bihar Times) Bihar government has taken a major step forward by announcing two room houses (with kitchen and bath-toilet) for all slum-dwellers in Patna. In addition three neighbouring townships of Danapur, Phulwari Sharif and Khagaul Nagar will also be covered by this scheme.
In fact detailed project reports for the rehabilitation of about 12000 households have already been prepared, costing about 3130 million (Rs. 313 crore). HUDCO has the main responsibility for implementing this scheme.
|
|
As Ranjan Kumar, Secretary of Nidaan voluntary organisation which has worked relentlessly for the rights of slum-dwellers says, "Sites are being identified. Care is being taken to ensure that livelihood is not adversely affected at places where rehabilitation at a new site is necessary."
U.N. Mishra, a writer activist involved with many campaigns says, "This is the result of the many struggles of slum-dwellers for their rights. Initially there were attempts to demolish the slums like Bondarbucha, but people's struggles and mass demonstrations convinced the government of the need for a different approach."
Ranjan Kumar adds, "Earlier the Jawahar Lal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission had a different agenda which would've disrupted the lives of the poor. But this is now being changed to fulfil housing dreams of the poor."
He admits, "At times it appears too good to be true. But promises have been matched by actions - so far. There is a lot of hope and enthusiasm among slum-dwellers."
In addition to Patna and three neighbouring towns, the slum population of Bodh Gaya comprising over 2000 households will also be covered by this scheme.
It is hoped that in all about 22000 families in "Patna Urban Agglomeration Area' and Bodh Gaya will benefit from this scheme within the next 2 years or so. In Patna the funds will be shared by the centre and the state equally while in the case of Bodh Gaya the Centre will bear about 80 percent of the cost.
All slum dwellers will be asked to contribute 10 to 12% of the cost. However those who can't afford this are being given the option of contributing their share in the form of work at construction site.
Suresh Prasad, who lives in a 8 x 7 feet room in New Bahadurpur with his 5 member family says, "This scheme of the government has given a new hope to many persons like me." Om Prakash Chaudhry's house in Digha was submerged in flood water and even after some repairs the land is damp. "We wait eagerly for the day when we will get a new 2-room house."
Yogendra Kumar who lives in a slum in Digha says, "Our people are really happy with this scheme of the government. We'll cooperate fully to make this a reality. But if the government does not keep its word, then we will come out in large numbers to ask the government to fulfil its promises."
As things stand today providing satisfactory housing to all slum dwellers in Patna and Bodh Gaya is a major initiative of the government which needs to be supported. Special care should be taken to ensure that livelihood of people is not adverse affected in the course of rehabilitation.
The urban homeless people suffer even more difficulties than slum dwellers, so the scheme for slum-dwellers should be accompanied by a comprehensive programme for the welfare of homeless people including the building of adequate and satisfactory shelters.
|
