LAWDA continues demolition drive, illegal structures dismantled

Demolition drive continues in Srinagar

Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr Baseer Ahmed Khan today launched helpline number for general public to report complaints of unauthorized and illegal constructions in the city especially in the catchment area of Dal Lake for which an extensive demolition drive has already been initiated through Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LAWDA).

Mr Baseer Khan also reviewed the progress achieved in demolition of illegal structures constructed under the garb of prevailing law and order situation in some localities. He was informed that LAWDA has demolished 13 structures as a part of demolition drive during past one week.

The Divisional Administration has issued helpline number 9419087342 for registration of complaints and information regarding illegal encroachments and constructions. Mr Malik Tariq of LAWDA has been appointed as Nodal Officer of special cell for encroachment removal under supervision of Tehseen Mustafa, Vice-Chairman LAWDA.

The Divisional Commissioner asked the District Administration Srinagar, Srinagar Municipal Corporation and Lakes and Waterways Development Authority to maintain constant vigil against the attempts of illegal constructions in prohibited areas and also seek police assistance for immediate action wherever required.

Meanwhile, the Enforcement Wing of LAWDA today demolished two more illegal structures in Ishber, Nishat on main road and another single storey building along Northern Foreshore Road in green belt area which was raised illegally in violation of norms and was under process for further construction and expansion during the visit of the team. With this the total number of illegal structures demolished recently has risen to 16, a LAWDA spokesman said.

He said more than a dozen attempts aimed at raising illegal constructions during the night hours were thwarted in last one week by enforcement of wing of LAWDA with the assistance from civil administration and police. Action has also been initiated in cases of illegal constructions and ferrying of construction material in prohibited areas.

The Divisional Administration has also issued advisory to owners of trucks and tippers regarding prohibition of ferrying construction material in prohibited area of Dal and Nageen lake without proper permission in absence of which criminal action will be initiated against owners as well.