DM imposes Section 144 on identified stretches
“Drive for removal of encroachments along the banks of river Jhelum to restore its width to its original position was started today simultaneously by a joint team of officers of Revenue/Police (including lady police contingent)/SMC and Irrigation and flood control Department from SemPora and Panzinara,” an official handout said.
“This is being done under the overall supervision of Sub Divisional magistrates/Assistant Commissioner Revenue Srinagar. Scores of structures / boundary walls and thousands of trees were removed. The drive will continue till all the encroachments are removed along the banks of river Jhelum as per the directions of the High Court,” the handout added.
“All those persons whose structures fall within the demarcation made by the Revenue/Irrigation and Flood Control Department are advised to voluntarily remove the encroachments of their own.
“In order to maintain Law and Order during demolition drive, District Magistrate Srinagar has ordered imposition of Section 144 CrPC at the spots where demolition squads are performing their duties along the Banks of River Jhelum from Sempora to Panzinara, till further orders,” the handout said.
Officials said the Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar and Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation have been asked to “provide all logistic support and necessary assistance to the Flood Control Department and Revenue Staff so as to ensure strict implementation of orders in letter and spirit.”
When contacted the DM Farooq Ahmed Lone said the demolition drive would continue till all structures are removed, “Our advice to the people is that they voluntarily remove such structures so that losses are less,” Lone told.
