Langanbal (Pahalgam), Apr 7: Despite being designated as a non-permissible zone for constructions, illegal constructions continue in this scenic spot, 6 kilometers from the world famous resort of Pahalgam.
 Several persons including some officials of Revenue and other departments posted in Pahalgam have constructed huts in the area known for its lush green forests full of pine trees and other vegetation. These, sources say, also include clerks and peons.
 Sources said that in the last eight months only as many as 20 huts have come up near the Langanbal Bridge and Khelan on the banks of Lidder River.
 “A Naib Tehsildars who was earlier posted in Pahalgam acquired about 5 Kanals of land in Khelan and constructed 4 huts,” sources said. They said that his office clerk, a peon and another employee of the Revenue department have also constructed one hut each after acquiring one Kanal of land each in the same area. Sources added that an employee of Wildlife department has also constructed a hut.
 “Besides, some highly influential persons including a resident of Kullar and two others from Srinagar have also come up with huts,” sources said.
 Sources further said that none of the owners of the huts has acquired permission either from Building and Operation Control Authority (BOCA) or Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA).
 Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA), Abdul Waheed Tak said, “The areas like Langanbal, Khelan and Veersaran have not been under practical surveillance of the PDA, but now it is under our future extension program and recently we have issued notices to many influential people who were going for construction near the banks of Lidder and ecologically fragile forest areas.”
 Regarding construction of huts by some employees posted in Pahalgam, Tak said he would look into the matter.
 Deputy Commissioner (DC), Islamabad, Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmad also assured action in the matter.

Lastupdate on : Wed, 7 Apr 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 7 Apr 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 8 Apr 2010 00:00:00 IST