YEIDA Approves Hybrid Model for Heritage City Mathura—Shifts to Direct Authority Development of Residential Clusters

What Changed: From Full PPP to Hybrid Model

Initially, YEIDA had proposed the Heritage City to be executed on the lines of the Film City project with a single private developer overseeing planning, construction, and management over 10 years. However, the Authority later revised the concept after assessing potential financial risks and long-term feasibility.

The change follows a series of financial and operational reviews which suggested that a fully PPP-based model could face challenges in cost recovery, especially as the Authority itself will be responsible for land acquisition.

Under the new model, YEIDA will now develop the residential and commercial segments, while religious, tourism, and cultural infrastructure will be created through PPP partnerships.

Funding Mechanism and Land Acquisition

About Rs 700 crore will be spent on land acquisition, which YEIDA plans to fund through the sale of residential and commercial plots. YEIDA CEO noted that strong demand for residential plots in Mathura would make it easier to raise funds.

The hybrid approach allows YEIDA to secure control over foundational infrastructure while leveraging private expertise in hospitality, cultural, and tourism zones—elements requiring specialized operational management.

Project Location and Strategic Connectivity

The project, part of Phase Two of the Yamuna Authority's development plan, will mark the first phase of development in the Raya Urban Centre. The Heritage City is planned along both sides of a 15.3-kilometre road being built by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to connect NH-44 with the 101 km mark of the Yamuna Expressway.

A 7-kilometre expressway linking Heritage City to Vrindavan's Banke Bihari Temple will be discussed at the board meeting, along with the revised alignment designed to avoid low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Flood Risk Assessment and Design Revision

During the monsoon season, floodwater from the Yamuna River had reached the proposed site, prompting YEIDA to order a fresh survey. The proposed road has been straightened to avoid low-lying and flood-prone areas, prompted after incidents of waterlogging and flooding during the last monsoon.

YEIDA has instructed CBRE South Asia Pvt Ltd, the consultant that prepared the Detailed Project Report (DPR), to carry out a comprehensive flood-impact and risk assessment before finalising the new alignment.

What Happens Next

The proposal will be tabled for approval at YEIDA's upcoming board meeting on November 7. Once approved, the process of selecting a developer will begin. Once board approvals are secured, land acquisition and initial infrastructure works will begin, followed by phased development of residential plots and cultural zones.