'Demolition man' appointed nodal officer for enforcement in Gurugram

The state government has decided to end multi-department setup and unify enforcement, with 70 per cent of the city struggling with encroachments.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the government has appointed RS Batth, District Town Planner, Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority, nodal officer for enforcement. The move aims to end jurisdiction confusion and Batth will be the ultimate authority on the removal of encroachments on public places, including roads, market places and government land under HSVP and MCG.

He would also handle violations in government and private colonies pertaining to building/layout planning. Sources claim that the decision was taken on the recommendation of state Industry and Environment Minister Rao Narbir, who is also MLA from Badshahpur block of Gurugram that has the highest number of encroachments.

“In an area, one road will be of MCG and the other of HSVP. Yet another part will be under the jurisdiction of GMDA. The multi-department setup is crippling enforcement,” said Rao Narbir.

Speaking to The Tribune, Batth, known as "demolition man of city", said, “Encroachment is the root cause of many issues. Our survey shows that 70 per cent of the city faces encroachment, be it footpaths, pavements, roads and residential units. We will set up a grievance cell for people to report these issues.”

The orders also stated that officers of HSVP, GMDA and MCG posted at the Enforcement Wing and District Town Planner (Enforcement), Gurugram, have to assist Batth.