Patna: The Bihar government is considering several options for acquiring land for the proposed Pataliputra satellite township after farmers in some areas expressed reluctance to part with their holdings.
The Urban Development and Housing Department said land would be acquired based on the option preferred by farmers. The issue was discussed during a recent stakeholder meeting on the proposed township.
Officials will now visit villages to explain the different land-acquisition models to farmers, including the benefits and implications of each option.
Land pooling offers 55% developed land back
According to officials in the Urban Development Department, the first option under consideration is land pooling.
Under the proposed model, 55% of the pooled land would be developed and returned to the participating farmers.
Farmers who do not agree to the land-pooling arrangement would be offered other options, the department said.
Negotiated agreement with FAR and TDR benefits
The second option involves a negotiated agreement with landowners. Under this model, farmers could receive benefits linked to Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and Transferable Development Rights (TDR), along with concessions on certain fees.
The department is also considering a separate mechanism for land required for public utilities.
Land could be purchased specifically for infrastructure and amenities such as roads, drains, parks and sewerage systems.
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Formal acquisition and hybrid model
If farmers remain unwilling to sell their land, the formal land-acquisition process could be invoked, according to the department.
A hybrid model is also being considered, under which the method of land acquisition would depend on the option agreed upon by farmers in a particular sector.
The department has said that land would not be acquired against the wishes of landowners and that farmers’ consent would be given priority.
The government plans to continue discussions directly with farmers in villages before finalising the approach to land acquisition for the proposed township.
