PDA demolishes illegally raised structures in Lidroo, Pahalgam

Srinagar: The Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) on Wednesday demolished several structures that according to them were raised illegally in Lidroo area of Pahalgam.
Officials said that several structures had come up in the area without any permission, thereby strict action was initiated and all such constructions were demolished.
They said that such drives were conducted in the past and will continue in the coming time as well.
The demolition drive has garnered mixed reactions from the local community and stakeholders.
Environmentalists and concerned citizens have welcomed the move, arguing that it is necessary to protect the area’s ecology while some people have alleged that only a few are being targeted while the rest are being spared.
They have demanded action against all the persons, who have illegally raised their structures in the last few years.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA), Tariq Hussian Naik said that these structures were raised illegally in violation of the master plan in place for Pahalgam.
He said that PDA along with Police, revenue and other departments were part of the drive, adding that all such structures that have come illegally will face the same action.
The CEO further said the crackdown is aimed at preserving the natural landscape of Pahalgam and ensuring sustainable tourism development, urging the property owners to ensure compliance with all regulations before undertaking any construction projects.
He said that any employee found hand in glove with the illegal constructions will face action and investigation in this regard is going on