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The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) in India has taken a stern step to curb illegal construction activities by threatening to slap the stringent Gangsters Act against those who indulge in such activities. The GDA has asked the police department to identify the illegal construction activities and act against them in necessary fashion. The move comes after the GDA observed a rise in illegal construction activities in the city, leading to an increase in encroachment and unauthorized occupation of land.
The Gangsters Act is a law that is primarily used to tackle organized crime in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Under this act, those who are involved in illegal construction activities can be arrested and detained for up to six months without bail. The act also provides for the seizure of properties and assets of the accused. This step by the GDA is expected to act as a deterrent against illegal construction activities in the city. RK Singh, the vice-chairman of the GDA, is in charge of the city's illegal buildings. According to sources, he intends to consult with the police commissioner about how best to conduct the drive.
Illegal construction activities have been a persistent problem in Ghaziabad, with several areas being affected by such activities. These illegal constructions not only lead to encroachment and unauthorized occupation of land but also pose a threat to the safety of the residents. The GDA has been taking several steps to tackle this issue, including the demolition of illegal structures and the imposition of heavy fines on the violators.
The last ten to fifteen years has seen a sudden rise in illegal construction, pushing the government to rethink its current modus operandi and push for stricter action. The vice-chairperson of the GDA has been personally involved in finding a solution considering several measures to curb the issue and deter others in the future. Local authorities are said to be drawing up a list of defaulters in every zone.
According to the prevailant laws the following protocol is maintained. An assessment is first made of the degree of encroachment by the town planning department, who then decides whether or not it can be compounded. The development authority then decides whether to approve the additional construction for a compounding cost or, if it is wholly illegal, to demolish the building within 60 days. If the additional development was done without infringing the land use regulations, whether in the setback area or elsewhere, it is considered compoundable. However, structures built on public property and in contravention of the building ordinances must be torn down.
Of all the illegal constructions identified to date, the GDA has passed 500 demolition orders. However, only 140 of these orders have been executed so far. The GDA has demanded a response within 15 days of passing of the order if the owner fails to comply with it. GDA's efforts to demolish buildings have been hampered by a shortage of labour and equipment.
The GDA has requested the corporation and assistance of residents in tackling the issue. It has asked residents to inform them about any illegal construction activities taking place in their locality. The GDA has assured the residents that their identity will be kept confidential and that they will be rewarded for providing information about illegal construction activities.
The GDA's decision to use the Gangsters Act against those involved in illegal construction activities is a significant step towards curbing such activities in the city. This step is expected to act as a deterrent against such activities and will help in maintaining law and order in the city. The residents of the city have appreciated the GDA's efforts in tackling this issue and have pledged their support in this endeavour. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of the law and the support of various stakeholders.
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