Srinagar: Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Commissioner Dr Basharat Qayoom has ordered the withholding of salaries of three Zonal Enforcement Officers over alleged lapses in discharging their duties, while directing an intensified crackdown on illegal encroachments and unauthorised constructions across the city.
The directions were issued during a review meeting of the SMC Enforcement Wing on Tuesday to assess enforcement activities and action taken against violations of municipal regulations.
Qayoom directed officials to intensify field inspections, ensure closer supervision and take prompt action against illegal encroachments, unauthorised constructions and violations of approved building permissions. He also stressed that public complaints should not remain unattended.
The Commissioner directed the concerned Joint Commissioners to verify all ongoing and newly raised constructions in their respective jurisdictions to ascertain compliance with approved building permissions and municipal regulations. The exercise has been assigned a specific timeline, with officers asked to submit compliance reports.
He also ordered the constitution of enforcement cells under the Joint Commissioners and the formation of flying squads to ensure quick response to complaints and verification of field reports. An online platform for the public to report grievances and violations has also been proposed.
Emphasising accountability, Qayoom cautioned that negligence, dereliction of duty or failure to act against violations would invite disciplinary action. He said enforcement measures must be implemented uniformly and without favour.
The Commissioner called for sustained field-level action and better coordination among zonal and ward-level officials, directing the Enforcement Wing to ensure effective implementation of municipal regulations.
The meeting was attended by Joint Commissioners, the Assistant Legal Remembrancer, Chief Enforcement Officer, Zonal Enforcement Officers and Ward Officers.
