In less than 20 years, Brazil’s housing deficit can nearly double from its present lack of 7.2 million residential units to 12.45 million in 2023. In an attempt to diminish this difference, the Ministry of Cities estimates that an annual expenditure of around US$ 4.52 billion (12;44 billion reais) is necessary.
Yesterday in Brasília the National Urban Development Policy (PNDU) was presented by the Brazilian government, in a seminar sponsored by the Ministry, to deal with the question of the housing deficit, in addition to questions related to sanitation, transportation, traffic, and urban planning.
One of the main points was the creation of the new National Housing System (SNH),, intended to provide residential access to all segments of the population, most of all the low income population.
According to the Minister of Cities, Olívio Dutra. the basic idea of the PNDU is that the country is undergoing an “urban crisis,” and what is needed to turn it around is a policy to orient and coordinate the efforts of the three governmental levels (federal, state, and municipal), together with the Legislative and Judicial branches, the private sector, and civil society.
“What is being sought is social equality, greater administrative efficiency, expansion of citizenship, environmental sustentability, and answers to the questions of the rights of the most vulnerable segments of the population, namely children and adolescents, the elderly, the handicapped, women, blacks, and Indians,” Dutra declared.
He opened the seminar in the company of the Minister of National Integration, Ciro Gomes.
Investment
At the end of last month, Dutra, affirmed that Brazil will have to spend US$ 6.9 billion (R$ 20 billion) annually over the next two decades to eliminate the country’s housing shortage.
The Minister was in Porto Alegre to inaugurate another Residential Lease Program (PAR) housing complex. Dutra announced that 478 thousand new housing units will be handed over this year and that the government expects to invest US$ 4.5 billion (13 billion reais).
Over 8 thousand people whose family income is less than six minimum wages signed up for the PAR selection process. The monthly lease paid by the future occupants amounts to US$ 85.30 (245 reais), plus an administration fee. At the end of 15 years, the family receives the deed to the residence.
The PAR is a residential lease plan for families that earn between three and six minimum wages and do not own their own homes. The aim is the construction of homes or the purchase of homes that are under construction or in need of refurbishment.
Agência Brasil
