Bengal CM warns of live interrogation over 27 illegal buildings in Kolkata

Kolkata, Aug 6 (SocialNews.XYZ) Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Thursday warned of “live” interrogation of promoters and officials involved in illegal constructions after irregularities were identified in 27 buildings across Kolkata.

After a meeting with a Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Association of India (CREDAI) delegation, Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul said clearances had been given to 193 under-construction projects that were stalled after audit. Still, major irregularities were found in 27 buildings.

She said promoters involved in illegal construction would face punishment.

Paul said Adhikari, who was present in the meeting, warned that promoters and officials responsible would be brought before the media and interrogated in public.

The Chief Minister has ordered that a special programme will be organised and the media will also be called. Those accused of illegal construction will be produced there. They will have to be held accountable live. Not only the promoters, but all the government officials who permitted by ignoring rules will also have to answer live,” she said.

Paul added that the government did not want harm to real estate builders but would not allow accidents like Taratala to happen due to illegal constructions.

She said in several areas, including Kolkata and Baranagar, constructions up to seven floors had been made after permission was granted for only four-storey buildings. Notices have already been sent to 27 such operators.

Out of the stalled projects, 193 buildings have been cleared to resume work. From now on, mandatory soil tests, structural audits and plan verification will be required for construction.

A special task force and a high-level investigation committee headed by PWD Secretary Antara Acharya have already been formed to monitor the process.

Source: IANS