Urban panel proposes to change the face of Lado Sarai

The DUAC has proposed major redevelopment plans for the urban village Lado Sarai which has now become a congested residential area. The most common problem faced by residents in the area is of waterlogging.

The water table in the area is also on the decline, said a DUAC official. The Delhi Urban Art Commission (DUAC) recently held a meeting with all the stakeholders recently, including Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), BSES, to carry out a feasible redevelopment plan for the area. Residents and MLAs have also been involved to sort out the immediate needs of the area.

The Commission has proposed rainwater harvesting in the area. At least 60 per cent of the rainwater can be harvested, the study points out.With rainwater and wastewater getting mixed in the area, the Commission is now studying the drainage system. 

“The involvement of the locals will help sort the water and drainage issues in the area on priority basis. The RWAs in the area are taking it up with the local politicians to resolve these perennial issues now,” said a DUAC consultant.

While the Commission can propose redevelopment plans, the civic bodies are responsible for executing it. In the past, the DUAC has often been accused of not coming up with feasible plans. The involvement of locals is to change this approach.The study on Lado Sarai was carried out by the Commission in two phases so far.

The reports are yet to be officially released Lado Sarai is in proximity to the Mehrauli Archaeological Park and the Qutub Complex. The area should be made more accessible from the three connecting roads – Mehrauli Badarpur Road, Aurobindo Marg and Anuvrat Marg.   The urban village attracts a significant number of architects and artists, said the consultant. The main source of income of permanent residents here is renting out houses to this community. 

However, there is a lack of space for restaurants and art galleries which can help develop this area. Horizontal growth of houses and cars parked in open space have led to congestion.

“We have recommended parking space in five corners of the area. A building for mixed use should be developed with offices, cultural centre and banquet hall. This building can house offices which help generate revenue for the area,” said the consultant. 

To relieve the area of illegal tehbazaris, the Commission has come up with a suggestion to run flower and vegetable markets from the three proposed underpasses. 

The other proposals of revamping the area include setting up of an architectural museum and extension of a school for children in the urban village.