HSVP begins action against illegal constructions on Sirsa’s green belt

After years of persistent efforts by whistleblowers, local residents and continuous pressure from the media, the Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) has finally begun action against illegal constructions on several acres of green belt land in Sirsa city.

The HSVP has issued demolition notices to over a dozen religious and social organisations that have illegally occupied green belt areas throughout the town. These lands were originally designated for public parks and green spaces, but over the years, many structures were built on those in the name of religious or charitable work.

The action is being taken in compliance with strict orders from the Supreme Court and the Punjab and Haryana High Court. These courts have clearly ruled that no unauthorised construction of religious nature be it temples, mosques, churches or gurdwaras would be allowed on public lands, roads or green zones.

As per HSVP notice issued on Tuesday, each encroaching institution has been given a seven-day deadline to remove the illegal structures on their own. If not done, the department will carry out demolitions as per the Haryana Urban Development Authority Act, 1977. The cost of demolition will be recovered from the responsible parties and further legal or contempt of court proceedings may also follow.

HSVP officials confirmed that this time, notices have been sent to every organisation involved in unauthorised construction on green belts. This includes a wide area spread across the city that has been under illegal occupation for years.

Local whistleblower Kartar Singh, who has been raising this issue since December 31, 2022, expressed satisfaction over the move. He had been consistently informing district and state-level authorities through written complaints about illegal encroachments and even took the matter to the High Court. Kartar now hopes that this step would finally lead to the recovery of green belt land and the rejuvenation of Sirsa’s natural spaces.

HSVP had previously issued such notices nearly five times in the past. However, no firm action had been taken. This time, local residents are hopeful that the administration will follow through and take concrete steps to remove all illegal structures and restore the green zones that belong to the public.