Akash Ghai

Tribune News Service

Mohali, December 23

A total of 81 illegal structures that have come up within the restricted 100 metres around the Air Force station here after the deadline of March 3, 2011, would be razed without any compensation within two weeks.

Using powers of collector under the Works of Defence Act, 1903, Mohali Deputy Commissioner Girish Dayalan issued the orders in this regard today.

Confirming the development, Dayalan said earlier a total of 98 structures were identified, which had come up in the restricted area after March 9, 2011.

“Of the total 98 owners of these structures, 16 owners were able to adduce evidence that their structures were existing prior to the set deadline of March 9, 2011, while one owner gave evidence that his property was not situated in the restricted area of 100 metres around the Air Force station. So now, all 81 structures are raised in contravention of the law, therefore, they are liable to be demolished since their action of raising the same was illegal. I have issued orders to demolish these structures within a period of two weeks,” said Dayalan.

Dayalan added that the demolition order had been issued following the directions of Punjab and Haryana High Court after giving adequate time to the owners to plead their case, and carrying out proper legal procedure. “No compensation for structures will be given to the owners of these buildings rather they might be liable to pay the cost of demolition. If they want compensation for their plots, they can approach the authorities concerned, who will decide on it,” said Dayalan.

The Government of India Notification of January 23, 2010, had imposed restrictions on use, enjoyment of land in the vicinity of the Air Force station, Chandigarh, situated at Mohali and ordered that such land may be kept free of buildings and other constructions.

“Directions are also issued to the SSP, Mohali, to provide adequate force for ensuring the demolitions peacefully in coming days,” said Dayalan.