New Urban Development Act will mandate land allocation for roads, open areas: DPM Singh

KATHMANDU: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development, Prakash Man Singh, has assured that the Urban Development Act will be drafted within the current fiscal year 2024/25.

During a meeting of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, DPM Singh responded to queries about his Ministry, pledging to advance the restructuring of the Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA) by formulating the Act.

Parliamentarian Prem Suwal raised concerns about the government's plans and strategies for farming and maintaining forest areas at all local levels, and questioned the effectiveness of the KVDA's operations.

In response, DPM Singh stated that action will be taken against real estate businesspersons who subdivide land without obtaining permission from the Authority. According to Minister Singh, the new Act will require any physical development plans to allocate at least 15% of the total land for roads and at least 5% for open areas.

Deputy Prime Minister Singh clarified that local levels are responsible for preparing and implementing land use plans, while the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) will provide necessary support if requested for the development of settlements.

He added that local level authorities are tasked with framing land use plans covering 10 sectors, including agricultural, commercial, industrial, forest land, wetland, and areas of heritage and cultural importance.

Singh also mentioned that the Town Development Act-2045 BS is currently in force to build new towns, provide necessary amenities, and ensure the coverage of health services, education, and other facilities for residents.