Srinagar,Feb 12:In an effort to save world famous water body from further deterioration, authorities have demolished 390 illegal structures and booked 541 violators for raising unauthorized structures or encroachment the portions of Dal Lake in past one year.
An official of Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LAWDA) said that during 2016, 228 demolition drives were launched against the illegal constructions and FIRs filed against the violators.
He informed that 390 illegal buildings have been demolished and 541 violators were booked by the LAWDA.
“During the summer unrest in 2016, some persons tried to take disadvantage of situation. They tried to raise illegal structures while some of them also tried to encroach the portions of Dal Lake,” he added.
He said that authorities acted promptly and took action against violators.
“Amid unrest in Kashmir, illegal structures were coming up in and around the Dal Lake. Unscrupulous persons were taking undue advantage of the situation and started constructing illegal structures during night,” he said.
He added that the illegal structures were demolished in various areas including Saida Kadal, Harvan, Nageen, Nishat, Shalimar, Kanitar, Rainawari and its adjoining areas.
He said that LAWDA is all set to install at least 15 closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras near major entry points of the Dal Lake to check encroachments.
Officials said the step is being taken on the specific directions from the Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.
LAWDA had floated tender for purchase and installing of CCTV camera at an estimated cost of Rs 77 lakhs. “The job shall be done in a phased manner and initially 15 cameras shall be installed,” said an official.
He maintained that suggestion was given to the government that CCTVs should be installed at all entry points in the Dal Lake and there should be a Control Room, where officials should be deputed round the clock to monitor the activities and transportation of building material within and around the water body.
