Ganderbal, May 22, KNT: The Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) on Friday carried out a demolition drive in Sonamarg during which an allegedly unauthorized structure was demolished following directions from the Chief Executive Officer of the authority.
Officials in the authority said the action was undertaken as part of enforcement measures against illegal construction within the tourist resort.
According to sources, the individual concerned had earlier also erected an unauthorized structure, following which the Sonamarg Development Authority had served a notice directing compliance with building regulations.
Officials alleged that despite the notice, the person continued with the construction in violation of the authority’s directions, prompting demolition action.
The drive was conducted under the supervision of officials of the authority as part of efforts aimed at regulating construction activity in the ecologically sensitive tourist destination.
The demolition has meanwhile triggered discussion among sections of local stakeholders and general public regarding broader enforcement against alleged unauthorized commercial structures in Sonamarg.
Some people questioned whether action against illegal constructions was being implemented uniformly and called upon the authority to prepare a comprehensive inventory of all allegedly unauthorized hotels, restaurants and commercial establishments operating within the resort area.
They urged the present Chief Executive Officer of SDA to ensure that enforcement measures extend to all violators irrespective of influence or status.
Sonamarg, one of Kashmir’s major tourist destinations, has witnessed recurring debate over construction activity, environmental regulations and land-use enforcement amid rapid tourism-related development. [KNT]
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