PCMC acts tough: 400 buildings razed, 2,400 FIRs filed
The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has filed FIRs against about 2400 individuals who had set up illegal structures across the industrial city. In addition to the same, 400 illegal buildings were razed by the authority, as part of the drive to demolish unauthorized constructions within its limits. Reports reveal that this is one of the highest numbers of FIRs, in connection with illegal structures from any civic body in the state.
PCMC Commissioner informed that the drive has picked up steadily. He stated that at certain occasions like religious festivals, the police is preoccupied with security arrangements. It is only during such occasions that the civic authority avoids action against illegal constructions. He informed that the actions undertaken by PCMC are directed by the high court and till the state government announces a policy decision, the demolition drive will continue.
Public notice regarding unauthorized constructions
The Corporation had issued a notice/appeal regarding unauthorized constructions, in the public interest and for the information of all its citizens. The notice states that since constructing, dealing in and residing in unauthorized and illegal construction is illegal and unlawful, the said unauthorized and illegal constructions, which are constructed and are under construction, will be demolished. The High Court of Mumbai has also passed an order to demolish such unauthorized constructions in PIL No. 151/2010.
The Municipal Corporation has designated officers in various places, to keep a check on illegal constructions in the city. Criminal cases would be filed against developers who indulge in illegal constructions. Those firms/developers/ builders, who obstruct the procedure of legal action undertaken by the Municipal Corporation will be prosecuted and punished with imprisonment of up to 3 years and a fine up to Rs. 50,000/-.
An open appeal is made to the citizen/firm/developer, to construct buildings only after obtaining a proper permission from the Municipal Corporation. An FIR would be filed against the concerned person, in case any illegal construction is carried out.
