Khawaja Zaheer Ahmed - PDMA

90. Thousands of acres of “Katcha” lands have been illegally encroached
upon by local influentials or have been leased out on nominal charges resulting
in erection of private bunds. Construction of houses and other built up properties
have been allowed along river banks and canals etc. Similarly, there has been a
surge of encroachments on acquired lands in pond areas of barrages which has
aggravated the flood hazards. The natural flow of water has been blocked as a
result of numerous encroachments in most waterways due to unplanned and
illegal constructions.
91. Unfortunately, the local and provincial governments have themselves
indulged in encouraging illegal acts promoting encroachments. Unauthorized and
technically unsound public works have been executed by local authorities.
Construction of roads and gas pipelines have been allowed to pass through
bunds in contravention of legal provisions. All such encroachments have
contributed to obstructions in the flow of water resulting in flooding of many
areas. A matter of grave concern which came to the notice of the Commission
was that some of the governments are selling acquired lands in pond areas to
raise revenues. Under the law, no construction of any infrastructure is allowed to
be erected within a distance of 200 feet from banks of the rivers/streams. It
should be a matter of serious concern if the government itself indulges in
unlawful acts of selling those very lands which it had acquired to protect irrigation
infrastructure and property of the citizens.
92. The governments must correct that and ensure that no encroachments are
permitted and no acquired lands are sold or leased out. Actions should be
initiated by governments to remove all encroachments with a firm hand. It should
also ensure that all such illegally constructed structures on government lands
which had been destroyed by the recent floods are not allowed to be re-erected.
93. The Hon’ble Supreme Court may wish to consider appropriate directions
to the government in this regard.
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