Over 500 Illegal Structures Erected in Pahalgam and Surrounding Areas Despite Government Crackdown

Over 500 Illegal Structures Erected in Pahalgam and Surrounding Areas Despite Government Crackdown

By Bilal Bhat

July 05 2024: (JKNN/AR) Despite government claims of a rigorous anti-corruption campaign in Jammu and Kashmir, over 500 illegal structures have been erected in areas outside the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) jurisdiction, including Yener, Awoora, and Dhawatoo. This blatant violation is severely impacting Pahalgam’s ecosystem, highlighting entrenched corruption among enforcement agencies.Following PDA chief Tariq Hussain’s crackdown on violators within PDA jurisdiction, illegal constructions have shifted to regions beyond PDA control. Sources reveal that many structures are being built recklessly, some even receiving “No Objection Certificates” from local officials like BDO, VLW Secretary Panchayat, and revenue authorities.In September 2023, a grievance lodged by this reporter about construction near the Awoora forest belt was dismissed by forest officials. Top sources disclosed to Awami Reporter that the illegal constructions, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and business complexes, often involve individuals with political connections, with the government failing to take action.Locals report that construction is ongoing in protected buffer zones, with the wildlife department unable to curb these activities. Some structures have been raised on agricultural land without permission for land use change, and there are cases of forest or state land being encroached upon.Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Mr. Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, has led some demolition drives, but more are needed to curb these illegal activities. New SDM Surjeel Ahmad acknowledged the issue and has started a demolition drive, emphasizing zero tolerance for illegal structures and corruption within his team.Efforts to contact forest officials in Awoora were unsuccessful, with officials absent during visits, indicating a lack of duty.The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir has mandated adequate setbacks for all buildings within Pahalgam, yet violations persist with some constructions exceeding the allowed size and height. Compliance with various regulations, including those by the National Green Tribunal Act and the Construction & Demolition Waste Management Rules, is crucial, especially in eco-sensitive areas like Pahalgam, which houses the Overa-Aru wildlife sanctuary.These illegal activities threaten the region’s environmental stability and underline the need for stringent enforcement of building regulations and anti-corruption measures.

(JKNN/AR)