'Rampant encroachment inside premises':Awadh Apt residents flag safety concerns
They allege that these activities have been carried out by some influential individuals.
A recent visit by TOI found several unauthorized structures inside the apartment complex. These include illegal sheds, gates, gardens, guesthouses, and private guard rooms near the basement area -- alterations which, according to residents, obstruct public passageways and encroach on common spaces.
Senior members of the apartment society met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sep 27, 2023, to flag the issue.
They allege that the encroachments pose a risk to the structural stability of the building and compromise the safety of its residents.
"The CM had given clear directions for immediate action, yet the LDA has failed to act decisively. It appears the matter has been caught in red tape," said a resident, who requested anonymity.
Between Sep 22 and Sep 25, 2023, the LDA served notices to the alleged encroachers. However, residents say these notices were issued under incorrect legal provisions.
One of the recipients later approached the high court, which quashed the notice on the grounds of jurisdiction, noting that the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) had not been officially constituted under the Uttar Pradesh Apartment Act, 2010.
Residents contest this legal argument, stating that RWA could not be constituted in view of certain technicalities. They also argue that crucial facts that the project has not been handed over, and no completion certificate has been issued for the building, were not presented before the court, allowing the encroachers to obtain relief.
In response to ongoing complaints, a second notice was issued by the LDA on December 16, 2023, which included photographic evidence of the unauthorized constructions. Yet, residents allege that no follow-up action has been taken since then.
In several communications, residents have highlighted the safety risks posed by these constructions. One key concern is a personal guard room constructed directly over a basement entry point, which they say poses a major fire and safety hazard as it blocks emergency access routes.
"We are only asking for lawful action and the restoration of safety in our homes," said a resident.
When TOI contacted LDA deputy secretary CP Tripathi, he said he had no information about the encroachments and suggested contacting the enforcement officer.
When approached, enforcement officer Vipin Shivhare said that while he would look into the matter, it is still under process in the LDA court.
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