Yogi to Launch 600-Flat Housing Project on Atiq Ahmed’s Reclaimed Land
CM Yogi Adityanath to lay the foundation stone for the Padma Lok Awas Yojana on land reclaimed from mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed.
In a significant move to transform land once held by criminal elements into residential spaces for the common man, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is set to lay the foundation stone for a massive affordable housing initiative in Prayagraj. The project, known as the Padma Lok Awas Yojana, will feature approximately 600 flats built on land previously reclaimed from the mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed.
Transforming Mafia Territory into Homes
The proposed development is slated to take place on a vast stretch of more than one hectare located within the Sadar tehsil area. For years, this land—which belongs to the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA)—was reportedly under the occupation of mafia elements, preventing any legal or productive use of the property.
PDA Vice-Chairman Rishi Raj confirmed that the authority has successfully reclaimed the site and is now pivoting toward social welfare through urban development. The transition from "mafia-occupied" to "affordable housing" marks a major milestone for the local administration's efforts to reclaim public assets.
Project Details and Next Steps
While the vision for the 600-flat complex is clear, the project is currently moving through the necessary regulatory and administrative phases:
- RERA Registration: The project has already been officially registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA).
- DPR Processing: The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently being processed for final review.
- Tendering: Once the DPR receives formal approval, the PDA will initiate the tendering process to select contractors.
Note: Specific details regarding the size of the flats, individual pricing, eligibility criteria, and the allotment process are still being finalized by the authorities.
A Pattern of Reclamation
This is not the first time the administration has utilized land seized from the late Atiq Ahmed for public housing. In the Lukerganj area of Prayagraj, land previously occupied by the mafia was repurposed to construct 76 flats under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Those homes have already been successfully allotted to eligible beneficiaries, providing a blueprint for the upcoming Padma Lok Awas Yojana.
The upcoming foundation ceremony is expected to be a high-profile event, with senior government officials and public representatives scheduled to attend the program in Prayagraj.