Ahmedabad City civic body chief M Thennarasan expressed dissatisfaction with the public's lack luster response to the recently implemented impact fee scheme, prompting him to take decisive action. In an effort to address the issue of illegal constructions, Thennarasan issued a directive to all municipal zone heads, instructing them to compile a list of the five largest unauthorized structures within their respective zones. Furthermore, he mandated that demolition proceedings should commence within a week.
According to reliable sources within the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), a significant number of applications have been received thus far, reaching a total of 35,000 as of May 5. The new impact fee scheme was initially announced by the state government on October 17, 2022, with a four-month window for applications. However, recognizing the need for more time, the government extended the deadline by an additional four months, resulting in the final cut-off date for regularization applications being set on June 16.
The AMC has diligently reviewed 10,000 applications up to this point and has granted approval to 656 cases, predominantly pertaining to residential properties. Experts have noted that the processing of applications for commercial property regularization has faced obstacles due to a stipulation that requires builders to provide 50% of the designated parking spaces within commercial premises.
The underwhelming response from the public can be attributed to several factors. Notably, applicants are disheartened by the multitude of fees and betterment charges imposed by the AMC, which has contributed to a sense of discouragement. In addition, citizens are required to obtain various no objection certificates from authorities such as the airport and the heritage department, further complicating the application process. Concerns over the possibility of rejection and subsequent demolition of their illegal constructions also dissuade individuals from participating in the scheme.
Frustrated by the lack of enthusiasm displayed by the public, AMC chief Thennarasan has taken a decisive stance by instructing zonal town planning heads to identify the five largest properties with unauthorized constructions. These properties will then be targeted for demolition within the following week. As the AMC comprises seven distinct zones, this directive implies that the zonal heads must compile a comprehensive list of 35 properties warranting demolition.
The city civic body's proactive approach to tackling the issue of illegal constructions is evident in Thennarasan's firm directives. By urging municipal zone heads to take swift action and demolish the identified properties, the AMC aims to instil a sense of urgency and deter further instances of unauthorized construction within the city. It remains to be seen how this robust response will impact the public's perception and engagement with the impact fee scheme, as well as its effectiveness in curbing illegal constructions in Ahmedabad.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
