Lumsden club pulls down illegal structure in green belt

Neeraj Bagga

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, July 23

Lumsden Club on Monday pulled down the structure raised in its green belt, which was in violation of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) norms, after The Tribune highlighted the issue.

The move was appreciated by green activists and heritage lovers in the city. The state government, district authorities and all concerned sections of the society are shoring up efforts to increase the depleting green cover.

The Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). As per ASI norms no construction is allowed within the premises of protected monument and around 100 meters from its boundary. However, ASI officials were perturbed at raising of new structure within the palace. Another protected monument, Deorhi, of the palace, which is its southern gate, is just opposite the club.

The officials stated that it was not a first case of violation, seven notices were served to the club management in the past and four police reports were filed. Some members of the club, on the condition of anonymity, said as per club’s constitution its elections must be held annually. However, the last election took place on March 26, 2011.

It is worth mentioning that the case of eviction of clubs is pending in the High Court. When contacted, Deputy Commissioner KS Sangha said, direction was passed to pull down illegally raised structure. Norms would be studied before holding an election, he added.