Authorities in Gurgaon and Faridabad have initiated a crucial step in safeguarding the ecologically sensitive Aravali hills by launching demolition drives this week. Nearly 800 unauthorised structures, including farmhouses and banquet halls, are slated for removal under the Punjab Land Preservation Act's Section 4, which designates these areas as protected forest land. A landmark Supreme Court ruling has reinforced this protection, impacting villages like Anangpur, Ankhir, Lakkarpur, and Mewla Maharajpur in Faridabad. The comprehensive drive involves satellite imagery, drone mapping, and ground verification to ensure no illegal structures evade scrutiny. Property owners with pre-1980 constructions may seek exemptions with documented evidence, emphasising compliance with environmental laws amidst ongoing demolition efforts.
The fight to protect the Aravali hills takes a major step forward with demolition drives starting this week in Gurgaon and Faridabad. Nearly 800 unauthorised structures, including farmhouses, banquet halls, and boundary walls, will be removed in a bid to restore this ecologically sensitive region.
Before demolition began, officials conducted thorough "ground truthing" exercises. This involves physically verifying the locations of structures identified through aerial photography and satellite images. This step is crucial because the land in question falls under Section 4 (special orders) of the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA), granting it protected status.
A landmark Supreme Court decision in July 2022 declared that land notified under Section 4 of the PLPA be treated as forest land. This brings the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 into effect, making construction in these areas illegal. This ruling specifically impacted villages like Anangpur, Ankhir, Lakkarpur, and Mewla Maharajpur in Faridabad.
The Deputy Commissioner of Gurgaon confirmed the demolition drive and stated a team from the municipal council will oversee the process. The exact date hasn't been announced, but demolitions are expected to begin next week.
A December 2022 government survey identified 6,793 unauthorised structures built on protected land in just four Faridabad villages alone. Most of these structures were farmhouses and banquet halls.
Following the Supreme Court order, authorities instructed forest officials in Faridabad to create a comprehensive list of structures using a combination of satellite imagery, drone mapping, and ground reports. This multi-pronged approach ensures a complete picture and prevents any unauthorised structures from escaping detection.
There's a potential exemption for some property owners. Those who can provide evidence proving their structures were built before October 24th, 1980 (when the Forest (Conservation) Act came into effect), may be exempt from demolition. However, they will need to submit concrete proof to the authorities. Notices were already sent to owners in October 2023, giving them time to potentially claim this exemption or demolish their structures themselves.
This demolition drive marks a significant step towards protecting the Aravali hills, a vital ecological region facing threats from illegal construction.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
