30 June 2023, Mumbai: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath distributed keys to 76 beneficiaries of affordable housing units on Friday. These units were constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) on land that was reclaimed from the possession of the late gangster Atiq Ahamed in Prayagraj. During the event, CM Yogi Adityanath interacted with children at the site and inspected the flats that have been allotted to the underprivileged. The beneficiaries expressed their delight, stating that they never thought they would have their own homes and expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
The flats, built specifically for the poor, provide much-needed affordable housing. Beneficiaries were able to purchase a 41-square-meter flat for only Rs 3.5 lakh, while a flat with two rooms, a kitchen, and toilet facilities costs Rs 6 lakh. The allotment process took place through a lottery on June 9, with 1,590 eligible applicants participating after the verification of 6,030 applicants. The draw was conducted in the auditorium of the Allahabad Medical Association, marking an important milestone in the affordable housing project.
The foundation stone for this housing project was laid by CM Yogi Adityanath on December 26, 2021. The project, located in the Lukerganj area of Prayagraj, occupies 1,731 square meters of land that was successfully freed from the possession of Atiq Ahmed. The initiative has been undertaken by the District Urban Development Authorities (DUDA) under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). The two blocks of flats provide a total of 76 housing units to the beneficiaries, further contributing to the government’s efforts to address the housing needs of the economically disadvantaged.
Atiq Ahmed, a gangster-turned-politician, faced serious criminal charges including the murder of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLA Raju Pal in 2005, as well as the killing of a key witness in the case, Umesh Pal, earlier this year. Ahmed and his brother Ashraf Ahmed were fatally shot by individuals posing as journalists on April 15 during their transportation for a medical examination in Prayagraj.
The successful completion and distribution of these affordable housing units signify a significant step towards fulfilling the housing needs of the underprivileged. The initiative not only provides secure and comfortable living spaces to the beneficiaries but also helps them achieve a sense of stability and pride in owning their own homes. The Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of CM Yogi Adityanath, continues to prioritize the welfare and well-being of its citizens through such progressive and inclusive projects.
Article by PRITESH PATEL