Residents remove 50 encroachments from streets of Kullu town

At least 50 out of 150 identified encroachments have been removed by residents themselves from streets and pathways in the township. Most residents had encroached on the government land by installing chains in front of their houses. Some residents had constructed temporary structures or laid concrete on two to three feet area of the approach road to their properties.

In a spree to remove encroachments during the last two months, Hari Singh Yadav, Executive Magistrate-cum-nodal officer of the drive, along with officials of the Kullu Municipal Council (MC), revenue, forest, public works and police departments removed at least 50 hand drawn carts and temporary stalls from properties of the civic body.

The administration had identified 150 encroachments so far during the demarcation drive. The campaign has led to discontent among residents of the town. Some residents say they had renovated their properties and now officials were asking for papers of approval from the MC. Pankaj, a businessman, alleged that the MC was adopting pick and choose and trying to unnecessarily pressurise residents.

Another resident Rajeev said, “Encroachments, which hinder movement of people, should be removed immediately. However, paved portions, which are rather facilitating movement of the general public, should not be razed.”

Local leaders have also been raising questions about the fairness and need of the anti-encroachment drive. A resident Vinod alleged that officials of the MC were not showing orders for carrying out the drive. He said rather officials were threatening to take action against anyone who sought clarification on carrying out the anti-encroachment drive.

The High Court of Himachal Pradesh had ordered the Chief Secretary to ensure that no unauthorised construction or encroachment was allowed on the government land along national and state highways and roads in districts across the state.

The High Court had warned that any failure by officials concerned to perform their duty would result in severe consequences. Apart from facing contempt proceedings, officials, who failed to report or remove unauthorised construction and encroachments, could face departmental action, including removal or dismissal from service, the court stated. Besides, officials could face criminal proceedings in accordance with the law, the court said.