Glada Intensifies Crackdown on Unauthorized Colonies in Ludhiana
The Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (Glada) executed a decisive demolition operation on Wednesday, targeting an illegal colony in Sahnewal as part of its ongoing campaign against unplanned urban expansion. This action underscores the authority's commitment to curbing fraudulent real-estate practices that threaten the city's infrastructure and residents' investments.
Strict Enforcement Under Ministerial Orders
The demolition was carried out under directives from Punjab's Housing and Urban Development Minister, Hardeep Singh Mundian, and Glada Chief Administrator, Sandeep Kumar. A specialized enforcement team implemented the operation, which proceeded without opposition, highlighting the authority's resolve in addressing violations that have persisted despite multiple legal notices.
Glada has announced plans to pursue criminal charges and file First Information Reports (FIRs) against the developers involved, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach towards unauthorized construction. A spokesperson for the authority stated, "A special drive has been launched to take punitive action against those fleecing innocent residents under the garb of offering cheaper plots in colonies that lack statutory sanction."
Public Advisory on Investment Risks
Chief Administrator Sandeep Kumar issued a stern warning to the public, advising against purchasing properties in unapproved colonies due to significant infrastructure risks. Key points from the advisory include:
- Service Exclusion: Properties in unauthorized colonies will not receive essential amenities such as water supply, sewerage, or electricity connections from Glada.
- Verification Requirement: Prospective buyers are urged to visit the official Glada website to check the list of approved and regularized colonies before making any investments.
- Map Compliance: Only projects with government-sanctioned layout maps are considered legal and safe for purchase.
This advisory aims to protect residents from falling prey to developers who lure buyers with promises of affordable plots that lack necessary legal approvals.
Expanding Enforcement Across the District
The demolition in Sahnewal is part of a broader series of enforcement actions across the Ludhiana district. Similar campaigns have recently been conducted in areas such as Manakwal, Mehmoodpura, and Pohir, reflecting the state government's efforts to regulate urban development and prevent the growth of unplanned settlements.
These measures are designed to ensure sustainable urban planning and safeguard public interests against fraudulent real-estate schemes.
