Palitana is a sacred city in Gujarat, but it faces a pressing issue with illegal constructions. Local authorities have struggled to remove unauthorized structures despite being aware of the problem. Reports indicate that millions of square feet of public land have been illegally occupied. The municipality often issues notices but takes little action beyond that. This has led to ongoing disputes over encroachments along main roads and in lower areas of the city.
For over a year, higher authorities have directed local officials to remove these illegal constructions. However, local officials seem hesitant or unable to act decisively. Many believe that political pressure is a significant barrier to taking effective action. Illegal encroachments continue to increase, often in plain sight of the authorities.
Local residents express frustration over the situation. They feel that instead of improving the management of Palitana and making it more beneficial for both citizens and visitors, the municipality engages in superficial actions. For example, they clear street vendors occasionally to create a façade of progress, but no substantial efforts are made to tackle the larger illegal structures that persist.
The Chief Officer of the municipality, DP Kapadia, has been unable to widen or clear essential roads due to political pressures. Plans for action remain only on paper. Residents demand a clear action plan to address the encroachments on public roads and other significant illegal structures.
It is alarming that in Palitana, illegal constructions occur without fear of repercussions. There are even permanent structures built over drainage systems. Moreover, in places where encroachments were previously removed, the authorities have allowed new constructions to spring up.
The municipality has faced numerous complaints about illegal constructions, but progress remains slow. While there are efforts to remove encroachments from footpaths, the political influence often hampers these operations. Despite the municipality’s financial constraints, including delays in salaries for daily wage workers, the illegal encroachments continue to thrive.
Tax collection from shops and property has also been a long-standing issue, with significant amounts owed to the municipality. If the outstanding dues were collected, it could provide some financial relief. However, any attempts to recover these taxes encounter calls from political figures, which halts any action.
Thus, while there are initiatives to remove encroachments, they are often inconsistent and temporary. Moreover, as soon as the pressure from the government eases, new encroachments appear again. The municipality, governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party for over 15 years, faces criticism for its inability to bring the situation under control.
Local citizens are calling for a concerted effort from all political sides to prioritize their interests and address these pressing issues. It is evident that a significant reform is needed to improve the governance and management of Palitana, ensuring its development and the welfare of its residents.
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