Action ordered against illegal construction in Murree

Punjab CS urges better hygiene at tourist spots

RAWALPINDI:

Punjab Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman has given the green light to take action against buildings in Murree that have been constructed in violation of approved building bylaws.

According to official sources, the decision was taken during a meeting at the commissioner's office, which was presided over by chief secretary and attended by various officials, including Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chatta, Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema, PHA DG Ahmed Hasan Ranjha, Murree ADCR Qasim Ijaz, and AC Kamran Hussain.

During the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema delivered a detailed briefing. The chief secretary emphasised that commercial buildings in Murree would undergo an audit to identify and address any violations of approved building plans.

To curb illegal constructions, the authorities plan to intensify their crackdown, focusing on commercial buildings that lack proper parking facilities. Additionally, there are plans to complete the necessary road patchwork and ensure that all roadside buildings are painted, contributing to a comprehensive renovation plan aimed at enhancing Murree's beauty.

Funding for these actions will be provided, and special emphasis will be placed on expanding the monsoon plantation campaign to beautify Murree with flowers and plants.

Moreover, the chief secretary also stressed the need for better cleanliness practices, with a particular focus on tourist spots, ensuring an efficient garbage removal and disposal system.

The commissioner expressed that all relevant institutions are working diligently to restore Murree's natural beauty. The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has taken special measures to promote roadside flower growth during the monsoon.

Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema reaffirmed that there is a zero-tolerance policy against illegal constructions in Murree. Furthermore, they have implemented a regular traffic control system and taken important steps to address rush-hour parking issues, he said.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, July 17^th, 2023.