EOI, DARJEELING, JULY 1, 2024 : Questioning the functioning of the Darjeeling Municipality and alleged corruption, the People’s Forum, a non political organization, has submitted a memorandum to the Darjeeling district administration, demanding an independent investigation. The PF has alleged the Darjeeling Municipality is hand in glove with builders, allowing them to construct unauthorized structures. “There is rampant and unauthorized construction of high rises without proper approval.
Building plans have been passed without conversion of land,” PF convener Bhanu Lama said on Monday. Lama highlighted that buildings and other structures were being constructed on public footpaths and drains without proper authorization. “We have nothing to say on how people are constructing their structures. But the onus is on the municipality. How have they allowed such illegal constructions? Public roads, drains and footpaths have been occupied and encroached upon,” said Lama.
Interestingly, the Darjeeling Municipality a few days ago had issued notice to five hotels directing them to clear the public drains on which slabs have been constructed.
The PF convener said construction of massive high rises had turned Darjeeling into a concrete jungle which had the possibility of affecting tourism in the hills. “Key tourist panoramic view points are now blocked by unauthorized structures and buildings. This will affect tourism and the heritage charm of our area. Tourists come to the hills for its greenery and serenity,” said Lama.
The PF convener said construction of massive high rises had turned Darjeeling into a concrete jungle which had the possibility of affecting tourism in the hills. “Key tourist panoramic view points are now blocked by unauthorized structures and buildings. This will affect tourism and the heritage charm of our area. Tourists come to the hills for its greenery and serenity,” said Lama.
Lama said heritage sites were under threat from illegal high rise and the Land Reform Act of 1955 under section 14 (C) of Tribal Land was being violated. “Apartments and shops have been constructed on tribal land without conversion of land and without obtaining permission from the tribal department. This has disrupted the demographic and cultural balance of the region. Illegal and rampant construction is a threat to the heritage sites of the place,” said the PF convener.
Lama said to curb such illegal activities within the municipality, an independent enquiry committee be formed to investigate and legal actions be taken on the defaulters.
“The district administration or the West Bengal Government should form an inquiry committee to investigate the activities and decisions of the board members of the Darjeeling Municipality. Strict legal actions should be taken against those found guilty of unauthorized approvals and construction including demolition of illegal structures and order to the registration officer not to entertain any documents for registration of a flat unless the number of floors to be built is specifically mentioned,” he said.
“The district administration or the West Bengal Government should form an inquiry committee to investigate the activities and decisions of the board members of the Darjeeling Municipality. Strict legal actions should be taken against those found guilty of unauthorized approvals and construction including demolition of illegal structures and order to the registration officer not to entertain any documents for registration of a flat unless the number of floors to be built is specifically mentioned,” he said.
Lama also advocated for regular monitoring of construction of buildings, preservation of heritage sites and public spaces