Residents say construction meant for residential use is being run commercially
Srinagar, Jan 10 (KNB): Serious allegations have been levelled against the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) over its alleged failure to act against an unauthorized construction at Ajthwan Srinagar, despite violations of approved permissions
According to official records, the construction site falls under Permission/Order No: SMC/2025/3730 dated 28/11/2025 and an earlier Permission/Order No: SMC/2023/2119 dated 07/12/2023, which reportedly sanction the structure strictly for residential use. However, locals allege that commercial activities are being carried out on the premises in clear violation of the granted permissions.
Residents claim that despite repeated complaints, the SMC has failed to take effective enforcement action to stop the ongoing construction and alleged commercial use. They allege that allowing residential permission while commercial construction and activities continue reflects serious administrative negligence and amounts to facilitating illegal use of the structure.
The matter gained further attention after former minister Ashraf Mir submitted a formal complaint to the Commissioner, SMC, seeking immediate action, including sealing of the structure. Sources said that the Chief Enforcement Officer, SMC, after examining the case, had recommended seizure of the structure through a formal order in view of the alleged violations.
However, locals allege that the situation on the ground remains unchanged. “Construction work is still going on openly, and no concrete action has been taken so far,” residents told Kashmir News Bureau, alleging selective enforcement and inaction by the authorities.
Meanwhile, the owner of the structure has denied the allegations. Speaking to Kashmir News Bureau, the owner claimed, “We have proper commercial permission. All the allegations levelled against us are baseless.”
When contacted, the Chief Enforcement Officer, SMC, told Kashmir News Bureau that the matter will be checked. (KNB)