SRINAGAR — In a major move to check unauthorised constructions, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has directed an immediate suspension of all ongoing construction activities across 35 wards of the city until building permissions and approved plans are verified.
The directions have been issued through separate circulars by Enforcement Officers of the North/East, West and South zones, asking Ward Officers to ensure that no construction work continues in their respective areas until further orders.
According to the instructions, even property owners claiming to have obtained valid building permissions will have to produce the relevant documents before the authorities for physical verification and scrutiny.
The order covers all 35 wards, including Ward Nos. 1–17 in the North/East zone, 18–26 in the West zone and 27–35 in the South zone.
The move follows a review meeting chaired by the SMC Commissioner, where officials were directed to take strict measures against unauthorised construction and ensure compliance with approved building regulations.
Ward Officers have been asked to carry out inspections along with Building Inspectors and other supervisory staff to identify illegal construction, including work being carried out without proper approval or concealed from authorities.
SMC has also fixed responsibility on the concerned field officials, making Ward Officers, Building Inspectors and supervisory staff accountable for violations in their respective areas.
The circulars warn that any official found failing to implement the directions or showing negligence in checking unauthorised construction will face departmental and disciplinary action. — (KIMS)