ADITYA MAHESHWARI
Infrastructure Development Plan for Asansol
The study delves into the multifaceted components of the city's infrastructure, aiming to understand complexities and identify opportunities within key sectors like Physical and Social Infrastructure, Energy, Housing, Transportation, Environment, Tourism, and Governance. Initiated in July 2024, the exercise involved analysing current conditions through extensive fieldwork and data collection in Asansol.
Beyond sector analysis, this exercise focuses on forwarding comprehensive proposals designed to address identified challenges and harness potentials for Asansol's future development. The methodology integrates primary data from a 12-day field study, stakeholder consultations, and secondary research, resulting in a strategic blueprint for enhancing Asansol's overall infrastructure framework.
Detailed Project Report (DPR) and Infrastructure Development Plan for Asansol, West Bengal - 2034
About Asansol
Asansol, situated in western West Bengal near Jharkhand and bordered by the Damodar and Barakar rivers, is the state's second-largest urbanized region. Recognized by UN-Habitat's 2012-13 report as one of India's fastest-growing urban sprawls, it has significant economic importance. The Asansol Municipal Corporation (AMC) governs a 327.47 sq. km area, with the larger Asansol-Durgapur Development Authority (ADDA) overseeing planning for 1,603 sq. km.
Historically rooted in British-era coal mining and railway development, Asansol remains a major industrial centre. Eastern Coalfields Limited (Raniganj) contributes 2.99% of India's coal production. Crucially, the Indian Iron and Steel Company (IISCO) plant in Burnpur, one of the country's oldest steel facilities, produces 15-20% of the nation's steel.
Connectivity is a key strength; Asansol is well-linked to major cities by road, air, and rail. The Asansol Railway Station (est. 1863) is one of India's busiest, facilitating significant freight and passenger movement. This connectivity, along with its proximity to Kolkata, enhances its economic and strategic position. Culturally, the city hosts historical temples, educational institutions like Kazi Nazrul University, and a diverse population, reflecting its vibrant blend of industrial activity, infrastructure development, and cultural life.
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Land use Overview of Asansol
Based on the LUDCP Asansol Durgapur Development Authority data, the total land area is approximately 32,747 hectares. Over half of this (50.09%) is designated for Agriculture and Forest use. Residential land constitutes the largest developed category at 19.89% (6515 ha), exceeding URDPFI norms by nearly 13%. Vacant land covers 11.04%. Key developed uses include Industrial (4.50%, slightly above norms), Transportation (4.20%, below norms), and Public/Semi-Public (3.25%). Commercial and Mixed uses are minimal (around 0.8% each). Recreational land is notably scarce at 0.92%, falling significantly short (-15.31%) of URDPFI guidelines.
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As a team member working on the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and Infrastructure Development Plan for Asansol, West Bengal - 2034, I had the opportunity to work in h the 'Housing' sector.
Highlights of the wrok done are mentioned below :
• Analyzed the housing infrastructure using primary and secondary data to identify slum conditions and housing shortages.
• Mapped existing housing conditions using GIS to evaluate spatial trends and potential dilapidation.
• Projected future housing demand and devised sustainable development strategies for EWS, LIG, and slum rehabilitation.
• Prepared detailed DPRs and developed the Eco-Hive model for ex-situ redevelopment of vulnerable areas.
ANALYSI AND PRAPOSALS FOR INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN FOR HOUSING IN ASANSOL
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ANALYSI AND PRAPOSALS FOR HOUSING IN ASANSOL
Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Asansol Infrastructure
This Detailed Project Report (DPR) exercise represents an endeavour , building upon a prior infrastructure plan for Asansol. It offers hands-on experience in formulating DPRs for specific interventions selected from sectors like Physical/Social Infrastructure, Energy, Housing, Transport, Environment, and Tourism, starting November 2024.
The core focus is detailed project formulation, moving beyond broad analysis to assess the economic, social, and environmental feasibility of specific, targeted proposals derived from the earlier infrastructure study. Leveraging primary data from fieldwork in Asansol and further secondary research, the methodology centres on rigorous assessment and justification for the chosen projects, presenting blueprints that highlight their viability and potential impact.
DETAILED PROJECT REPORT FOR ASANSOL: ECO-HIVE FOR SLUM DWELLERS
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