SDMC launches large-scale crackdown on unauthorised, illegal constructions

To send out a strong message to unscrupulous builders who violate the 'Building Control Regulations' notified in the 'Master Plan-2021' and 'Building Bye-Laws-2016', South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) on Thursday initiated strong action against unauthorised and illegal constructions in South zone.

The decision was taken following instructions given at the 52nd meeting of the Nodal Steering Committee (NSC) and an order of the Delhi High court in a hearing of public interest litigation.

In accordance with instructions of the NSC, SDMC formulated an action plan to put an end to unauthorised constructions and to ensure that the same does not happen in the future.

A high-level team of the agency conducted a surprise inspection on Thursday to take cognisance of large scale unauthorised construction.

A senior SDMC official said that the building department of South Zone has formulated separate teams to take demolition and sealing action against unauthorised constructions in Chhattarpur, Chirag Delhi, Khirki, Krishna Park-Khanpur and Said-ul-Azaab, among other areas.

"As many as seven properties were demolished. Along with one property in Khirki, another was also sealed in Rajpur Khurd," the official said.

"Demolition action commenced in the morning and continued till late evening. Some local residents kept putting pressure on the demolition squad and tried to create hindrance and started protesting to prevent them from undertaking demolition and sealing action. Despite all the adversity, action was taken by the concerned officials," he added.

The SDMC official further said that the Delhi Jal Board and discoms have been asked to disconnect water and electricity connections, so as to discourage unscrupulous builders from going ahead with unlawful construction.

"Punitive action has further been boosted by sending letters to the Revenue department for not registering the booked properties, on grounds of unauthorised construction.

"The teams will continue to take demolition and sealing actions in the days to come," he said.