North MCD told to grant relief to illegal constructions

North Delhi Municipal Corporation (North MCD), which had earlier sealed scores of properties due to illegal construction, has announced to de-seal these properties. The Corporation took the decision after a fresh order of the Central government instructed the civic agencies to give relief till December 31, 2017. 

The order will not only provide partial relief to thousands of people whose properties have been sealed earlier but to others too whose properties were to be sealed. Acting on a private member resolution, the Standing Committee of the North Corporation passed a proposal during its Standing Committee meet on Wednesday. 

The agency said that nearly one lakh illegally constructed properties which have either been sealed or are under the scanner will get relief.

“The Centre has asked to give relief to trade units, shops and residential buildings. We want same from the Corporation too. Once de-sealed, the affected families will get a relief. We want a letter from the Corporation Commissioner in this regard so the implementation of de-sealing can take place,” said Pravesh Vahi, member of Standing Committee who moved the resolution.

The civic agency, under the Special Provision Act, was carrying out a sealing drive in its area. 

The Corporation was sealing illegal structures constructed between February 8, 2007 and June 1, 2014. 

The concerned department, while carrying out the drive, had sealed thousands of shops, godowns, trade units, dwelling units and the like in all its six zones. It has also taken penal action against a few owners.

“Earlier, we have razed structures, sealed properties and lodged police complaints too. Now, when the Union government has ordered to provide relief, we will act accordingly. A special committee will be constituted which will look after de-sealing and will report,” said Mohan Bhardwaj, Chairman of Standing Committee.