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Tue, 4th Nov 2008  The state government will introduce the concept of 'walk to work' in its new industrial policy to give corporate players investing in Punjab the added advantage of next-door housing for employees.
The concept is also aimed at easing out the pressure on infrastructure and transport system that may sooner or later hamper everyday living. Principal Secretary, Industry, S S Channi said the idea was to bond housing with industry. "There is a plan is to incorporate a clause that prohibits the industry from selling the houses. The modalities are being worked out. It will be like official accommodation given to government officials who are suppose to vacate it once they move out."
The government also plans to put a cap on the selling price of the housing unit to make it affordable for the company. Channi said a private developer could be roped in for the project in case the industry was reluctant to
develop it.
Punjab's new industrial policy, a strategic roadmap for which was prepared by the United Nation's Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), would be finalised shortly.
Punjab is also preparing its own SEZ Act, a draft of which is almost in place. A meeting with Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to finalise the SEZ Act draft was scheduled for November 6, but has been now put off to November 19.
R K Verma, Managing Director of Punjab Infotech, said the 'walk to work' concept would save the time spent on road by company officials and improve employee efficiency. "We are viewing various options, including leasing out the housing set-up or its outright sale."  | 
