Are Housing Colonies for Weaker Sections Being Developed by J&K Govt?
Synopsis
In a significant move to tackle the housing crisis in J&K, the government is developing colonies specifically for economically weaker sections. This initiative aims to provide affordable housing to those in need. Get the latest updates on this crucial development and how it will impact the urban landscape in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Takeaways
New housing colonies are being developed for economically weaker sections in J&K.
760 flats are under construction in Bhalwal, Jammu.
The initiative aims to alleviate the urban housing crisis.
A total of 10 locations have been identified for housing projects under PMAY (U) 2.0.
Affordable rental housing options are being introduced for urban poor in Jammu City.
Srinagar, Oct 30 (NationPress) The government of J&K announced in the legislative assembly on Thursday that colonies for economically disadvantaged groups are being constructed across multiple districts to alleviate the housing crisis.
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has launched a series of housing initiatives under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) to tackle the escalating issue of urban overcrowding.
The Housing and Urban Development Department shared this information with the Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
In response to a starred question (No. 198) posed by senior NC MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar, the government confirmed that new housing colonies for the economically weaker sections (EWS) are being established throughout various districts of the Union Territory.
The statement revealed that 760 flats for EWS are currently under construction in Bhalwal, Jammu, while 304 flats are being built at Chakhar, Sundli in Udhampur.
Additionally, the department indicated that the J&K Housing Board has pinpointed state land in several districts for more flat accommodations under PMAY (U) 2.0.
Land at 10 locations across the Union Territory has already been allocated to the Housing Board for the establishment of housing colonies intended for the general public, including EWS.
Furthermore, affordable rental housing/flats under the Affordable Rental Housing (ARH) scheme are also being arranged for the urban poor in Jammu City.
Recently, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah introduced a bill in the legislative assembly concerning the Rent Authority regulatory bill, aimed at safeguarding the interests of both landlords and tenants, while providing a swift adjudication process for resolving disputes and related matters.
The Chief Minister mentioned that the Bill has already been disseminated in an extraordinary issue of the Official Gazette.
Subsequently, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather presented the Bill for consideration before the House.
Point of View
I believe this initiative by the J&K government is a crucial step towards addressing the housing crisis faced by the economically weaker sections. It showcases a commitment to social welfare and urban development, which is essential for fostering a more inclusive society. The ongoing efforts under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana could significantly improve the living conditions for many families in the region, making this a noteworthy development.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana?
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) is a government initiative aimed at providing affordable housing to the urban poor by offering subsidies and financial assistance for the construction of homes.
How many flats are being constructed for EWS in Jammu?
Currently, 760 flats for economically weaker sections are under construction in Bhalwal, Jammu.
What is the Affordable Rental Housing scheme?
The Affordable Rental Housing scheme is a government initiative that aims to provide affordable rental housing options to the urban poor, facilitating access to housing in urban areas.
Who introduced the Rent Authority regulatory bill?
The Rent Authority regulatory bill was introduced by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to protect the interests of landlords and tenants.
How many locations have been identified for housing development?
Land at 10 locations across the Union Territory has been identified for the development of housing colonies for the general public, including economically weaker sections.
