In a decisive move against unauthorized urban development, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) has carried out a massive demolition drive, targeting and dismantling a total of 22 illegal structures in a single day. The operation, which swept through several neighborhoods on Monday, marks a significant escalation in the civic body's efforts to enforce building bylaws and curb unplanned construction.
Major Offensive Against Unauthorized Construction
The crackdown was executed under the direct orders of MC Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal. Teams comprising building inspectors and demolition crews focused their efforts on Zones C and D of the city, taking action against a range of properties that included industrial sites, commercial shops, and even an educational institution. Officials stated that the targeted structures were built either without any approval from the civic body or in blatant violation of sanctioned building plans.
Zone D: Demolitions and Sealing of Commercial Units
The enforcement action in Zone D was particularly extensive. Assistant Town Planner Harvinder Singh reported that the team took aggressive measures against 17 properties. The operation included the complete demolition of three buildings located in Himmat Singh Nagar and Preet Nagar.
Furthermore, authorities moved to seal 14 commercial units to prevent any further unauthorized activity. The sealed and targeted properties were spread across key areas, including:
- Five buildings in the Dugri Area opposite Chamkila Samaadh.
- Three buildings on Cemetery Road.
- Six shops and buildings on Jawaddi Road.
Zone C: Industrial Sites and School Building Razed
Meanwhile, the focus in Zone C shifted to the city's industrial outskirts, where violations were of a more serious nature. The team razed four illegal industrial buildings that were under construction in the Giaspura area.
In a notable and stern action, the authorities also demolished an under-construction school building in the Lohara area. Civic officials clarified that the educational institution project was being built without the mandatory approved building plans, a critical requirement for ensuring the safety of future occupants.
A Stern Warning to Violators
The one-day blitz has sent a strong message to property owners and builders across Ludhiana. A spokesperson from the MC's building branch issued a clear warning, stating that the drive against illegal constructions will continue in the coming days.
The civic body has made a strong appeal to all residents, urging them to strictly adhere to the rules. "Residents are strongly appealed to only commence construction after obtaining formal approval from the civic body," the official stated. The campaign underscores the administration's commitment to maintaining structural safety standards and preventing haphazard urban sprawl in Punjab's industrial hub.
