In a decisive move to uphold urban planning norms, the Panchkula district administration has issued a stern warning against unauthorized construction activities. Deputy Commissioner Sushil Sarwan has made it clear that no illegal building work will be permitted within the district's jurisdiction.
DC's Firm Directive to Officials and Public
Deputy Commissioner Sushil Sarwan has directed all relevant officials to maintain strict vigilance. He emphasized that any form of illegal construction, whether it involves building new structures or making unauthorized additions to existing ones, will face immediate and severe consequences. This directive was issued during a high-level meeting focused on maintaining the city's planned development.
The administration's stance is unequivocal: properties found violating building bylaws and regulations will be sealed without hesitation. This action is part of a broader crackdown to preserve the aesthetic and structural integrity of Panchkula, a well-planned city adjacent to Chandigarh.
Zero-Tolerance Policy and Public Warning
The DC's announcement serves as a direct warning to property owners, builders, and developers. The administration will not entertain any requests for regularization after the fact for constructions that bypass the legal approval process. The message is aimed at preventing the common practice of building first and seeking permission later, which has led to numerous urban planning issues in other regions.
Officials from the Town and Country Planning Department and the municipal corporation have been instructed to conduct regular inspections and patrols. Their goal is to identify infractions at the nascent stage, thereby preventing the completion of illegal structures which are harder to demolish later.
Consequences and Enforcement Drive
The consequences for flouting the rules are severe. Beyond the immediate sealing of the property, legal proceedings will be initiated against the violators. This could lead to hefty fines and even criminal charges in severe cases. The administration is leveraging various sections of the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas Act and other relevant laws to ensure compliance.
This crackdown is not just about punitive measures; it is also a proactive step to safeguard citizens. Illegal constructions often compromise safety standards, lack proper fire exits, use substandard materials, and overload civic infrastructure like water and sewage lines, posing risks to occupants and neighbors alike.
The Deputy Commissioner urged citizens to play a responsible role. He advised the public to verify and obtain all necessary approvals from the competent authorities before commencing any construction activity. He also encouraged residents to report any suspicious or unauthorized building work in their neighborhoods to the district control room or the concerned department, fostering a community-driven approach to urban management.
This firm stance by the Panchkula administration underscores a renewed commitment to planned urban development. It aims to prevent the haphazard growth that has plagued other cities and to maintain Panchkula's status as a model township. The success of this drive will depend on consistent enforcement and public cooperation in the coming months.
