Kerala - Thiruvananthapuram   

Illegal buildings in Kovalam: Ombudsman orders probe

Thiruvananthapuram: Ombudsman for Local Self Government Institutions M.R. Hariharan Nair has issued an order directing the Vigilance Investigation Director investigate 233 cases involving violation of building rules in the Kovalam beach area.

The order issued on December 30, was based on a report filed by the Deputy Director, Panchayats, detailing the unauthorised constructions in the area falling within the Vizhinjam gram panchayat. The Ombudsman has also directed the panchayat secretary to refrain from issuing occupancy certificate and building number for the 233 structures. Earlier, the secretary had informed the Ombudsman that notice had been issued to all the building owners or contractors.

The order also directs the panchayat secretary to prevent any new unauthorised construction. The secretary has been asked to inspect the building permits and ensure compliance with Kerala Zonal Regulation Act before allowing construction.

The order also directs the Vigilance Investigation Director to investigate the 233 cases reported by the panchayat deputy director and prosecute the panchayat officials and elected representatives who had abetted the crime.

The report filed by the panchayat deputy director comprises a list of the unauthorised buildings that are coming up at Kovalam, along with photographs. The buildings include lodges, massage centres, residential structures and shops.

The report was prepared after verifying the building permits issued by the panchayat and comparing it with the ongoing projects.

The case has been posted for hearing on February 25.

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