Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Jan 24: The district administration in Baramulla today demolished several illegal structures that had come up on both sides of the Srinagar-Baramulla National Highway.
The demolished structures include those that were provided due compensation as they fell under the prestigious 4-laning project of the highway but were not removed in time despite several reminders.
The demolishing drive was carried out from Sangrama to Delina in the Baramulla district in the presence of Beacon authorities and assisted by the police.
The drive was led by Tehsildar of the area, Kifayat Ali, who, on the occasion, urged those who had erected the illegal structures to refrain from such practices and follow the proper procedure before starting any construction.
“There were structures that were provided compensation, but they were not removed by the owners, causing the project to stall as we faced bottlenecks, prompting us to take the extreme step,” he said.
He added that these individuals were repeatedly instructed to remove the structures impeding the progress of the project, “but they did not pay any heed to it, leading to today’s action.”
The official mentioned that the action also targeted structures that were constructed illegally without obtaining proper permission.
“We do not have any problem with these structures unless they are constructed legally. It would be better to apply for the conversion of land use, obtain proper permission, and start construction only after that.”
He noted that many of these constructions were raised during nighttime and holidays, emphasizing the need for people to follow the proper processes before starting constructions.
The Tehsildar stated that the administration will not allow any violations in construction, and stern action will be taken against those involved.
“Those who do not remove the illegal constructions will face action; we will demolish such structures, and they will have to pay for the charges as well,” he said.
It is noteworthy that some of the landowners termed this action as unjust as they have raised structures outside demarcated land. However, they could not produce permission before the authorities.
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