The Federation of Noida Residents Welfare Associations (FONRWA) Demands Regularisation of Unauthorised Construction

The Federation of Noida Residents Welfare Associations (FONRWA) is advocating for the regularization of unauthorized constructions in Noida, focusing on Low-Income Group (LIG), Middle-Income Group (MIG), and High-Income Group (HIG) flats. This demand comes in the wake of penalties imposed by the Noida Authority on such constructions.

Representing over 200 member RWAs in the city, FONRWA contends that regularizing extensions and modifications—such as adding rooms and enclosing balconies—will address the urgent need for affordable housing among middle and lower-middle-class families. The federation has formally communicated this proposal to the Noida Authority CEO, Lokesh M, asserting that this initiative will benefit both residents by providing affordable housing options and the authority by generating additional revenue.

FONRWA President Yogendra Sharma emphasized that many residents have undertaken unauthorized constructions out of necessity to accommodate their growing families due to the high cost of housing in Noida. These modifications are often the only feasible solution for families who cannot afford new homes.

Mr. Sharma pointed out that Noida, as an industrial city, attracts a significant number of workers from different regions who struggle with the high housing costs. Regularizing these constructions, according to Sharma, will provide much-needed relief to these residents and help integrate them better into the community.

FONRWA Secretary General KK Jain further elaborated on the housing crisis, noting that the Noida Authority has not developed 1BHK and 2BHK flats for low and middle-income groups in recent years. The high prices of existing flats, coupled with the focus on larger units by private builders, have left many without viable housing options.

Mr. Jain argues that regularizing unauthorized constructions, along with imposing appropriate penalties, will not only help resolve the housing shortage but also provide a financial benefit to the authority. Additionally, FONRWA has called for the construction of affordable housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana to support Noida's economically weaker sections, ensuring that the housing needs of all residents are met effectively.

By addressing these concerns, FONRWA believes that the move will create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents, ultimately fostering a more balanced and equitable urban development in Noida.