The Chennai Corporation is yet to initiate action against Towers Club in Anna Nagar for unauthorised occupation of land. While the lease for the building which hosts the club had expired years ago, a 33,255 sq ft plot of land nearby was found to have been encroached upon by the club, too. The land had been earmarked for a park.
Despite reminders, including one on August 28, 2012, the club has failed to pay damages fee.
The civic body is likely to take action towards retrieving the land in W-Block, Third Main Road, No.41, Block No1A. The building was given on lease during the period from September 4, 1989 to September 3, 1992. The lease was extended for the period from September 3, 1992 to September 2, 1993 after which no extension was given.
A loss of Rs. 34.26 lakh was calculated as part of the audit objection raised in 2005-2006. When Chennai Corporation issued a notice to Towers Club a few months ago, the club denied illegally occupying the building and encroaching upon the land. It also sought extension of the lease period for 99 years by pointing to the fact that there were 1700 members in Towers Club with library and facilities for Ayurveda Treatment.
The Chennai Corporation has calculated an amount of Rs. 48.85 lakh as damages fee for use and occupation of the land and building. A few months ago, the Club was asked to pay the amount within two months.
