Upgrade for MPs: Swanky 3BHKs, duplexes to replace old flats in Lutyens

428 existing MP flats to demolished as part of redevelopment plan

Lutyens Delhi is set to change in a big way. Members of Parliament (MPs) will be moving from their 60-year-old flats to brand new low-rise apartments in the Lutyens zone, a process which will commence with the phased demolition of 428 existing MP flats which dot the prime piece of real estate.

The Economic Times reported on Monday that the Central Public Works Department is all set to demolish the old flats situated in the North and South Avenues as part of the redevelopment plan. 

Living like an MP

According to the financial daily, the new accommodation will comprise a three-bedroom flat, which will be serviced by a dedicated basement parking and have a servant's room. The new flats, which will have a view of the Rashtrapati Bhavan, will also come with a modular kitchen, granite flooring, and central air-conditioning, the report added. Further, MPs will have the option to opt for a duplex flat.

Brand new flats aside, living in Lutyens itself has its own advantages. The Lutyens Bungalow Zone covers approximately 3,000 acres, or 1.5 per cent, of the landmass of Delhi and is close to the prime minister's residence, ministries and India Gate, among other noted landmarks. Its population density is 10-15 people per acre — the lowest in Delhi or perhaps in the country.

These flats will be part of apartment blocks, which will have three floors in total — one more floor than the existing accommodation given to MPs.   

As reported earlier, the project would entail an investment of about Rs 600 crore. The existing houses will be demolished in a phased manner and the redevelopment work is scheduled to be taken up in phases over 8-10 years. 

All clearances received

The project has been in the works since 2010, the ET report said, adding that the plans for the new flats have received all the required clearances. Speaking to the financial daily, Secretary (urban development) Rajiv Gauba said, "Since the flats are in Lutyens Bungalow Zone, we needed clearances for the present design. We have received all clearances now and the plans should roll out soon." Also, the final nod from the Delhi Urban Arts Commission has also been received and, according to sources cited by the report, the process would start from the North Avenue.