Pahalgam: Concerned citizens have alleged a fresh surge in illegal constructions across the hill resort of Pahalgam, claiming that huts and other unauthorised structures are coming up in ecologically sensitive zones.
Locals said a hut has come up in Langanbal, while construction has allegedly resumed at a structure in Brada Haji that was earlier partially demolished. They further alleged that multiple huts have appeared adjacent to a Hotel and that similar activity is underway in Aathnadan.
Citizens accused the Pahalgam Development Authority of remaining inactive despite repeated complaints and warned that unchecked construction threatens the fragile environment and tourism potential of the area. Some inhabitants also alleged that property dealers first raise unauthorised structures and later sell them at high prices to influential buyers.
Responding to the allegations, Chief Executive Officer Pahalgam, Hilal Ahmed, told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the authority has taken swift action wherever violations were noticed. He said the hut in Brada Haji has been razed to the ground and clarified that construction in Aathnadan has been carried out with proper permission. He added that in Langanbal, illegal fencing done on the land has been removed by the authority.
The official said enforcement drives against violations will continue and urged citizens to report any fresh cases with proper details. [KNT]
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