GUWAHATI, July 3 � With a view to develop at least two or three satellite townships near the city, the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has intensified efforts to scout for suitable land.
GMDA chief executive officer (CEO) Dr M Angamuthu told The Assam Tribune today that the authority has prepared a preliminary plan for an 80 sq km township near the proposed six lane bridge�over the Brahmaputra River between�Narengi�and Kuruwa.
�Besides, we are also on the look-out for at least 1,000 bighas of land either near Palashbari and Chaygaon or Baihata Chariali for developing another township. We want to have at least two or three such townships near Guwahati, all built with proper planning and having the best civic amenities, while being environmentally sound,� he said.
Angamuthu said the planned township near the Narengi-Kuruwa Bridge will have an approximate developable area of 20 sq km with a population of around two lakh. The satellite township would come up on one side of the bridge.
�Only green industries are to be permitted in the township and the satellite town will have 40 sq km of its geographical space dedicated for green zone and water-bodies. Existing hills, agricultural patches and water-bodies will be maintained and steps are to be taken to ensure that there is no encroachment in the name of commercial development,� he said.
Of the total proposed developable area, 40-45 per cent would be earmarked for residential buildings and another 3-4 per cent for commercial ones. Besides, 8-10 per cent area would be for industries, 18-20 per cent for recreational grounds and 10-12 per cent dedicated as public or semi-public space.
Angamuthu said a proposal would also be submitted to the State Government to extend the planned Guwahati Metro service so that it reaches the proposed township.
With regard to the other plan, the GMDA CEO said efforts are on to find suitable land in the Palashbari-Chaygaon and Baihata Chariali areas.
