Delhi’s new master plan may open 70 peripheral villages to regulated commercial development

Around 70 villages on Delhi’s edge could see regulated commercial and institutional development under the proposed Green Development Area (GDA) framework in the Master Plan for Delhi-2047.

The policy would cover 47 villages currently facing restrictions on new residential and commercial construction, along with 23 villages governed by the low-density residential area policy. It could allow higher floor-area ratios and vertical development, subject to infrastructure and development-control norms.

Land parcels are proposed to be grouped by size, beginning at 600 square metres. Smaller plots would largely support agricultural and horticultural activity, while larger sites could accommodate farmhouses, open markets and sports facilities. The biggest parcels could be used for higher education, non-polluting work centres, research facilities, agricultural processing, convention venues and recreation.

The framework also proposes that 25% to 35% of an area be retained as green space. Officials said roads of 12, 18 and 30 metres are being considered within and around these areas. Its effect on villages will depend on the final rules and implementation on the ground.