NEW DELHI: India will build more than 1,000 affordable housing units in Seychelles under the first phase of a flagship housing project aimed at addressing the island nation’s housing shortage and strengthening bilateral development cooperation.An agreement has been signed between state-run National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) and the Government of Seychelles for the development of 1,008 affordable housing units under the first phase of the Île Aurore Housing Development Project, according to the Office of the President of Seychelles.The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by 2029 and will be Seychelles’ first high-rise affordable housing development. The project will comprise two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments housed in multi-storey residential buildings.The broader masterplan is designed to accommodate at least 1,800 residential units, along with schools, commercial facilities, recreational spaces, supporting infrastructure and other public amenities to improve affordable housing for Seychellois families.Under the agreement, NBCC (India) Limited will oversee the project’s planning, design, procurement and implementation. Its responsibilities will include the construction of housing units, connecting roads, utility infrastructure and a sewage treatment plant that will serve both the housing project and nearby areas.The housing initiative is part of the broader India-Seychelles development partnership. During Seychelles President Dr Patrick Herminie’s state visit in February, India announced a $175 million Special Economic Package for the country. Of this, $75 million has been earmarked to finance the housing project and its supporting infrastructure.The Office of the President of Seychelles said the agreement marks another milestone in the longstanding partnership between the two countries and will help address the country’s housing needs while supporting the development of sustainable communities for future generations.
