The Water Resources Department (WRD) in Chennai has issued a stern public advisory against purchasing land near lakes, rivers, and other water bodies. This warning comes in the wake of a recent enforcement action where four illegally-constructed concrete structures were demolished on the banks of Parivakkam Odai near Poonamallee last week.
Illegal Construction Uncovered on Protected Land
According to a senior WRD official, department staff first noticed suspicious construction activity near the banks of the Odai several weeks ago. Upon investigation, officials discovered that a private individual had sold the land to four separate buyers, who subsequently began building residential houses on the property.
Prohibited Zone for Private Development
The land in question falls under the classification of Odai Poramboke, where any form of private construction is strictly prohibited by law. These areas are designated as government land meant for water conservation and environmental protection, making them off-limits for residential or commercial development.
Failed Warnings Lead to Demolition Action
Officials initially instructed those involved in the construction to immediately halt all work. However, without continuous monitoring on the ground, civil works quietly resumed, and the structures were nearly completed within a short period.
During a follow-up inspection conducted last week, officials were surprised to find the houses fully built and ready for occupancy. The WRD then issued formal warnings to the occupants and initiated demolition proceedings against the illegal constructions.
Structures Razed with Official Oversight
The demolition was carried out systematically with revenue department officials present at the site to ensure proper procedure. Police protection was also arranged to maintain order during the operation, which successfully removed all four concrete structures from the protected water body area.
Vulnerable Buyers Often Misled
The senior WRD official expressed concern that many such cases involve people from economically weaker sections who are deliberately misled into purchasing government land. These vulnerable buyers often invest their life savings in properties they believe to be legitimate, only to face legal consequences and financial losses when the illegal nature of the transaction is discovered.
The department emphasized that prospective land buyers must verify the legal status and classification of any property before making purchases, particularly in areas adjacent to water bodies. Proper due diligence with local authorities can prevent such unfortunate situations and protect citizens from fraudulent land deals.
This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of verifying land documents and understanding zoning regulations, especially when considering properties near environmentally sensitive areas like lakes, rivers, and water channels.
