SRINAGAR — Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed ur Rehman Para has raised concerns over the new laws introduced by the Jammu and Kashmir government, alleging that they could weaken planning regulations, allow commercial activities in residential areas and increase the risk of flooding.
In a post on X, the MLA said the laws were introduced in the name of “ease of doing business” but could have serious implications for residential neighbourhoods, the environment and flood protection infrastructure.
The legislator claimed that the provisions allow shops and commercial establishments to operate in residential areas, with only certain categories of industries and activities, including liquor shops, nightclubs, freight and storage facilities, being excluded.
The MLA also questioned provisions that, according to the post, allow residential buildings up to 24 metres in height and 5,000 square metres in area to be constructed without floor area ratio (FAR) or coverage limits, subject to certification by a government-approved consultant. The legislator further claimed that malls of a similar size could be established without government approval.
Referring to the devastating 2014 floods in Kashmir, the PDP leader warned that unregulated construction could choke drainage systems, encroach upon wetlands and floodplains, and expose neighbourhoods to greater risks during future floods.
“Investment is welcome, but not at the cost of people’s homes and safety,” the MLA said, arguing that planning regulations were necessary to protect residents and the environment.
The legislator also questioned the accountability mechanisms under the new provisions, asking who would monitor the certification process and ensure that construction activities complied with safety and planning requirements.
The PDP leader reiterated opposition to the new laws, maintaining that promoting investment and business activity should not come at the expense of public safety, environmental protection and flood management. — (KIMS)