The Jammu and Kashmir government has directed demolition of illegal structures that came up in Srinagar amid a construction boom in the State after the 2014 floods.
Minister of State for Urban Development Mohammad Ashraf Mir, while inspecting various areas of Karan Nagar and Batmaloo here on Saturday, passed directions in this regard, a government spokesman said.
Accompanied by officials of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), the Minister ordered on-the-spot demolition of illegal structures, he said. “He also directed the SMC to expedite weekly inspections to check such constructions,” the spokesman said.
The Minister also asked the residents of the area to apprise the authorities of such structures so that necessary action could be taken.
Kashmir is witnessing a massive construction boom as flood-hit people have started rebuilding their homes and business places.
However, some unscrupulous elements, taking advantage of the leniency shown by the government for reconstruction of flood-affected structures, allegedly raised fresh constructions without seeking prior building permission from authorities.
Warning issued
Meanwhile, the Lakes and Waterways Development Authority issued a public notice on Sunday through local newspapers warning people against raising illegal structures in and around the Dal and Nigeen lakes in the city.
“Despite repeated warnings, several greedy and vested interests are frequently trying to raise illegal constructions around the Dal and Nigeen lakes. They should desist from raising such constructions and cooperate with the department or face action,” the notice read.
It also warned the truckers against carrying construction material to the area. It said vehicles plying in the area without permission will be seized and action initiated against the owners.
The body also cautioned government departments against undertaking any construction in violation of court orders. “The departments will then be answerable to the court,” the notice read.
The Jammu and Kashmir High Court had in October directed the body to attach all structures constructed in violation of the master plan and court orders in and around Dal and Nigeen lakes.
