The district administration on Monday intensified operations against illegal constructions, unauthorized parking facilities and unlawful transportation of mineral materials in different areas of Abbottabad, officials said on Sunday.  Following public complaints, the administration carried out an operation at Harno against illegal parking areas and swimming pools established on a natural water passage. 

During the inspection, unauthorized car and motorcycle parking facilities were found operating at the site and were immediately shut down. The owner was directed to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the relevant authorities before operating any parking facility.  During the operation, one illegally constructed swimming pool built on the natural water channel was completely demolished, while another pool was partially dismantled. 

The concerned person was instructed to remove the remaining illegal structures within two days, failing which strict legal action would be initiated.  Authorities also warned that future violations would result in the responsible individuals being produced before the court.  In a separate action, Additional Assistant Commissioner-II Samira Mehsud, accompanied by officials of the Mines and Minerals Department, conducted a joint operation in Nadi Dor, Havelian.

Several vehicles involved in the illegal transportation of mineral material were seized on the spot.  Cases were registered against the violators under Sections 42, 56, and 86 of the Mines and Minerals Act 2017.  The Additional Assistant Commissioner-II also visited various industrial plants in Khokhar Maira, where owners and management were directed to submit all legal and relevant documents to the administration by the following day. Officials warned that failure to comply would lead to strict action under the law.  

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)