- Delhi govt to regulate PGs within 45 days.
- New policy follows Satya Niketan building collapse.
- Web portal for PG info, address student concerns.
Satya Niketan Collapse Aftermath: Two days after a multi-storey boys’ PG building collapsed in Satya Niketan, southwest Delhi, killing seven people and injuring several others, the Delhi government is set to introduce a comprehensive policy to regulate paying guest (PG) accommodations and coaching institutes in the national capital within the next one-and-a-half months.
The government will also develop a common web portal that will provide information on PG accommodations on a single platform. The portal is expected to help students access details about the availability of PGs, facilities offered, and safety standards.
Students Flag Rent, Safety Issues During Meeting With Ashish Sood
Education Minister Ashish Sood met students living in PG accommodations on Tuesday to understand the problems they face. The government has expedited the process following the Satya Niketan building collapse, which claimed seven lives and left several students injured.
However, Sood said the government had already been working on a policy to regulate PG accommodations and improve housing arrangements for students.
During the meeting, students raised concerns over PG rents, facilities, operators failing to fulfil their commitments, adherence to agreements, and safety standards.
Sood said that in many cases, the owner of a PG building, the person operating it, and the individual collecting rent are different people. This creates difficulties in enforcing agreements between students and PG operators.
The proposed policy will lay down safety and other standards for PG accommodations. Before finalising it, the government will seek suggestions from PG operators, parents, student organisations, and concerned departments.
Following the consultation process, the proposal will be discussed with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and the Lieutenant Governor before being placed before the Cabinet for consideration.
Shortage of Student Hostels Another Major Challenge
Addressing the shortage of hostels for students coming to Delhi from other cities is another major challenge for the government.
According to Sood, more than two lakh students come to Delhi from different parts of the country and require accommodation. The government plans to explore ways to increase the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for the redevelopment of Delhi University hostels and expedite the approval of building plans.
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The government is also exploring the possibility of using vacant buildings in Narela to accommodate students. A proposal to connect these locations with educational institutions through bus services is also under consideration.
While the government plans to expand hostel facilities provided by government institutions, the private sector will continue to play a key role in meeting the accommodation needs of students in Delhi.
( With inputs from V K Shukla )