NCR Planning Board okays multiplexes and parks in green zones
The NCR Planning Board (NCRPB) has given the green signal for more construction activities in ecologically fragile zones like the Aravalis. This step will not only allow more commercial activities in the name of tourism but also will give the state governments virtually a free hand in deciding how they to want to use these areas.
All that needed to be done by the state government would be to frame a tourism policy to use these regions commercially. This information has emerged from minutes of the meeting circulated among NCRPB members. The minutes had a mention of the clause “as per state policy” is to be inserted after the words “including tourism” in the list of permitted activities in these regions.
Such activity was not permitted earlier. The board cleared the revised plans despite some serious reservations from some of its members, including Delhi Lt Governor Najeeb Jung.
A circular issued on February 21 says the modifications, including the provision to allow construction beyond 0.5% with prior permission of environment and forest authorities, have been “approved” by the board and the revised regional plan will be notified.
Haryana’s tourism policy incentivizes mega tourism projects. According to the policy, 70% of the area will be used for games and rides, 15% for other commercial activities and the remaining 15% for parking and green space. The commercial activities include building multiplexes, restaurants and accommodation. Land area ranging from 2.5 to 10 acres may be allowed under mega tourism projects.
The minutes circulated by the NCRPB secretariat also recorded the statement of Lt Governor Najeeb Jung, who said that the new rules should “strengthen rather than dilute the earlier provision”. He had stressed on the fact that it was essential considering its impact on developments in adjoining areas of Delhi.
Haryana chief minister, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, however, said that the planning committee’s recommendation to allow tourism activities and construction beyond 0.5% with conditions “does not dilute the existing provision” and is an “environment safeguard” since specific permissions have to be obtained.
Source: The Times of India
Aravalis, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, construction activities in ecologically fragile zones, Environment, Haryana's tourism policy, Lt Governor, Najeeb Jung, NCR Planning Board, NCR revised regional plan, Tourism
