Gurugram authorities are cracking down on illegal construction in affordable housing units, following a survey by the District Town Planner (Enforcement) department revealing widespread violations in EWS category homes in DLF Phase 5. Show-cause notices were issued to 100 homeowners for illegally converting EWS units into commercial spaces or adding extra floors. Despite notices, inadequate responses have led to the preparation of restoration orders. These violations have strained infrastructure, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of building regulations and protection of low-income residents' rights. Restoration orders will mandate compliance or result in property sealing.
Gurugram authorities are taking a firm stance against illegal construction in affordable housing units. A recent survey by the District Town Planner (Enforcement) department exposed rampant violations in EWS (Economically Weaker Section) category homes within DLF Phase 5.
The department issued show-cause notices to 100 homeowners who had illegally converted their EWS units into commercial spaces or constructed additional floors beyond the permitted limit. Despite these notices, there has been no satisfactory response, prompting the department to prepare restoration orders.
A detailed investigation revealed that these affordable homes, originally intended for low-income families, have been transformed into lucrative rental properties. Building codes have been blatantly disregarded, with properties now accommodating multiple families instead of the stipulated three. This has led to a surge in population density, placing immense strain on the colony's infrastructure, including water, electricity, and sewage systems.
Property owners have creatively exploited loopholes in the system. Buildings with stilt parking have been illegally converted into additional floors, and rooms have been constructed even within these parking areas. To maximize rental income, multiple one-room sets have been created on each floor, often exceeding the permitted limit by a significant margin.
The department has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to these violations. Restoration orders will be issued to homeowners, mandating the restoration of properties to their original state within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply will result in sealing the properties.
This crackdown highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of building regulations and the importance of safeguarding the rights of low-income residents. It also underscores the challenge of balancing urban development with the need to protect the interests of vulnerable populations.
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