SRINAGAR: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) has ordered a citywide crackdown on illegal encroachments and unauthorised constructions, withholding the salaries of three Zonal Enforcement Officers over lapses in the discharge of their duties.
SMC Commissioner Basharat Qayoom issued the directions during a review meeting of the Enforcement Wing, warning that officials who fail to act against violations will also face disciplinary action.
He directed the concerned Joint Commissioners to conduct a time-bound verification of all ongoing and newly initiated constructions in their respective jurisdictions to establish whether they comply with approved building permissions and municipal regulations. The officers have been asked to complete the exercise and submit compliance reports within the prescribed period.
To strengthen enforcement, Qayoom ordered the establishment of dedicated enforcement cells under the Joint Commissioners and the formation of flying squads to respond swiftly to violations and verify field reports. He also directed the development of an online platform through which residents can report encroachments, unauthorised constructions and other municipal violations.
The Commissioner called for more frequent field inspections and closer monitoring, directing officials to ensure that complaints are acted upon promptly. He said public spaces must be protected from encroachments and construction in violation of approved permissions would not be permitted.
Holding supervisory officers responsible for enforcement in their respective jurisdictions, Qayoom warned that negligence, dereliction of duty or deliberate failure to initiate action against violations would invite strict disciplinary measures.
The withholding of salaries of three Zonal Enforcement Officers was ordered over shortcomings in the performance of their assigned responsibilities, the Corporation said.
The meeting was attended by the Joint Commissioner, Administration, Zone East and South; Joint Commissioner, Revenue, Zone West and North; Assistant Legal Remembrancer; Chief Enforcement Officer; Zonal Enforcement Officers; and Ward Officers.
Qayoom directed the Enforcement Wing to ensure sustained action on the ground and better coordination between zonal and ward-level officials, stressing that municipal regulations must be enforced uniformly and without discrimination.
