The process of land acquisition in Noida is facing significant delays, raising concerns about the impact on the city’s development. Of the 215 hectares of land identified for acquisition, only 9 hectares have been acquired so far, with surveys of the remaining land ongoing.
Land Acquisition Challenges
Despite identifying 215 hectares of land for acquisition, progress has been slow. The Noida Authority, after failing to achieve success through mutual consent, has sought assistance from the district administration. Over the past two financial years, only about 9 hectares have been acquired, which is significantly below the target.
Development Under Threat
The slow pace of land acquisition casts a shadow on the ongoing development projects in Noida. With only a fraction of the targeted land acquired, the future of these projects remains uncertain. According to Noida Authority officials, most of the land in the notified area of Noida has been purchased or acquired under the Land Acquisition Act of 1894 and mutual agreements. Currently, around 215.36 hectares of land remains for acquisition in eight villages, which is now being pursued under the 2013 Act.
Efforts to Expedite Acquisition
To expedite the process, the Noida Authority has sought the district administration’s help and has prepared a proposal, which has been sent to Additional District Magistrate Gautam Buddha Nagar. Efforts are also being made by the Bhulekh and Work Circle Department to increase Noida’s land bank. Additionally, the process of selecting an agency for land audit has been completed, with Transparent in Land Acquisition (TILA) being chosen. This agency will conduct land audits to identify available land.
Legal and Encroachment Issues
Noida faces significant challenges due to a large number of disputed lands. Many of these lands are embroiled in legal battles with farmers. The Noida Authority is attempting to gain possession of these lands through court proceedings. Additionally, about 50 lakh square meters of land is currently under encroachment, further complicating the acquisition process.
Current Land Acquisition Status
Out of Noida’s total area of 21,316 hectares, approximately 14,000 hectares have already been acquired. The remaining 6,000 hectares include the population of 81 villages and public places, with 215 hectares identified for future acquisition. The remaining lands will undergo surveys, and plans for the remaining plots will be developed accordingly.
Mutual Consent and Cooperation
Efforts are ongoing to acquire land through mutual consent and cooperation with the district administration. Negotiations are taking place with landowners in the villages to sell their land to Noida based on mutual agreements. In the fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25, a total of 8.0433 hectares (19.87 acres) and 1.2206 hectares (3.016 acres) respectively have been purchased through mutual agreement. Additionally, farmers of approximately 3.3515 hectares (8.28 acres) have agreed to sell their land to Noida. The Noida Authority continues its efforts to acquire land through mutual consent.
Conclusion
The slow pace of land acquisition in Noida poses a significant challenge to the city’s development. The Noida Authority, with the help of the district administration, is working to overcome these hurdles and expedite the acquisition process. However, legal disputes and encroachments remain major obstacles. The successful acquisition of land is crucial for the future development of Noida, and efforts to achieve this goal are ongoing.