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The enforcement wing of the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) in Haryana has intensified its crackdown on illegal commercial activities in residential areas, sealing six houses in Sushant Lok 2. This enforcement drive, initiated in October under the directive of the district town planner, has resulted in the sealing of approximately 500 properties involved in unauthorized commercial activities, with over 750 violators receiving notices. The recent action in Sushant Lok 2, where stores and auto workshops were operating without the necessary permissions, underscores the authorities' commitment to upholding occupation certificate (OC) rules.
According to Manish Yadav, DTP (enforcement), the sealed properties were found to be conducting commercial activities without the mandatory approvals from competent authorities, a clear violation of regulations. The Haryana Urban Development Act's Non-Nuisance Rules strictly prohibit most commercial activities in residential buildings. Only a select few, such as those offered by doctors, lawyers, tax consultants, architects (without a studio), contractor consultants, chartered accountants, company secretaries, property consultants, and tourist guides, are permitted, but they must be registered with DTCP. These activities are restricted to the ground floor, covering no more than 25% of the area or 50 sqm, whichever is lower. Operators must pay a fee of Rs 60,000 and obtain DTCP approval, which is valid for five years and subject to monitoring.
The sealing of four residential buildings in DLF 1 on November 19 further illustrates the strict enforcement of building norms. Show cause notices were issued to offenders who had carried out illegal construction in stilt parking, covering cut-outs in violation of rules. Despite warnings, the building owners failed to provide satisfactory replies, leading to the sealing of the structures. This proactive approach by DTCP aims to deter violations and maintain adherence to construction regulations.
The enforcement campaign against illegal commercial activities in residential houses, temporarily paused during the festive season, resumed after Diwali. The department had already collected Rs 1 crore in penalties from offenders during previous sealing drives against unauthorized construction and illegal commercial activities in licensed colonies. Additionally, around Rs 50 lakh was collected through penalties and bank guarantees during the de-sealing of previously sealed buildings with various violations.
DTCP's stringent actions underscore the importance of adhering to residential zoning regulations and obtaining necessary approvals for commercial activities. The crackdown not only aims to preserve the residential character of neighbourhoods but also ensures the safety, legality, and adherence to established norms in construction and property usage. As the department continues its enforcement efforts, property owners and businesses are urged to comply with regulations to avoid penalties and legal consequences. This sustained regulatory drive contributes to creating well-planned and law-abiding urban spaces in Haryana.
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