Encroaching on MCD’s powers,govt looks to pass bills

The Bill involves the making the slum department as an independent board on the lines of the Delhi Jal Board. It will become the nodal agency for implementing the Rajiv Awas Yojana (low-cost housing project) for the Delhi government.

The Bill is at present with the Union Law Minister Veerappa Moily,waiting for the final nod before it is presented in the Delhi Assembly.

The government will also be presenting the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) Bill,which will give power to DSIIDC to take over maintenance work at the industrial units. This power too,is currently vested with the MCD. The Bill is essential for the government to execute the new industrial policy,which was recently cleared by the Delhi Cabinet.

Once the Bill is cleared in the Assembly,the civic agency will be able to supply all essential services directly to the industrial estates,including water,power and so on. There are 23 industrial estates in Delhi at present. The DSIIDC will charge the industries on the basis of maintenance per square metre. “The Bill will have several indirect benefits for Delhi. The DSIIDC will set up water treatment plants at the industrial complexes,which will mean more drinking water for common man,” Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta said.

With the Bill,the government aims to make Delhi an easier place for business. The Bill is on the lines of a similar authority in Maharashtra.

On the table
Urban Shelter Improvement Billwill transfer the Slum department,currently under the MCD’s purview,to the Delhi government.

IDC Bill
Will give power to DSIIDC to take over maintenance work at the industrial units. The Bill is essential for the government to execute the new industrial policy