Wakf yet to develop properties

Board planned to build commercial complexes

The Wakf Board’s year-old plan to develop its prime properties around the city is yet to take shape.

The board had proposed construction of commercial complexes and lease them out to business establishments. The revenue generated from the commercial complexes would be used for the welfare of the community.

The board had identified 13 properties to be developed and sought permission of the state government to do so. Initially, it planned to go with the build-operate-transfer model by inviting global tenders. That was shelved after influential persons showed keen interest in developing the properties. These properties are being developed in the first phase.

“It is almost two years since the board made public its plans. The proposals are still on the table. If such delays continue there will more litigation with someone claiming a stake on the land,” said social activist Ather Moin.

Among the properties being developed for commercial complexes, are one each at Begumpet, Khairatabad, Mehdipatnam and Doodhbowli, which measure between 239 and 1,000 square yards.

Wakf Board chief Mohamed Saleem said the government had sanctioned grants for the development of 12 Wakf properties. The Wakf Board has started preparation of project reports for three. He said that on his return to Hyderabad, he would identify the properties to be developed.

Last month, the chairman met Union minister Muqtar Abbas Naqvi during the Central Wakf Council meeting assured 95 per cent subsidy to state Wakf Boards for the development of any property.