Residents flag illegal constructions, poor enforcement in Greater Noida’s Golf Links-1

Officials at the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) said the enforcement is underway with notices issued to such properties

Greater Noida: Residents of Golf Links-1 in Sector Omega-1, Greater Noida, have raised concerns about alleged illegal commercial activities and construction in the residential colony, affecting basic infrastructure and daily life.

The RWA laimed that nearly 125 commercial establishments, including PGs and hotels, are operating illegally. (Representative photo)

The resident welfare association (RWA) of the colony claimed that nearly 125 commercial establishments, including paying guest (PG) accommodations and hotels, are operating illegally in the area, with a few under construction.

In response to these concerns, officials at the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) said the enforcement is underway with notices issued to such properties.

“Notices were issued, and around 26 properties were sealed. Now, following fresh complaints, inspections are being carried out again,” said Sudhir Kumar, general manager (architecture/planning).

However, residents said the situation on the ground remains “largely unchanged”. “People abiding by rules are suffering the most as illegal commercial activities continue. Some of them feel there is no other option but to leave the colony,” said Jatin Singh, the RWA president.

The RWA president said commercialisation of residential plots is widespread. “Of the over 900 plots, nearly 125–135 have been converted into PG accommodations, and construction is underway at several plots,” he said.

Residents alleged that the construction of basements for PGs and guest houses is damaging critical infrastructure. “Extensive construction work, especially digging for sewer lines and basements, is leading to pipelines being uprooted, causing blockages and drainage issues,” Singh said.

Officials, meanwhile, attributed the problem partly to legacy issues. “The sector was developed without a proper drainage system and does not yet have a completion certificate from the planning department. Due to earlier disputes, development work by the authority could not be carried out,” said Sunny Yadav, in-charge senior manager (sewage), GNIDA.

He added, “Due to commercial activity, all waste is dumped into sewer lines”

Residents of Ansal Housing in the same sector have also accused the authority of neglecting the colony for over a decade, citing crumbling roads, sewage overflow, poorly maintained parks and non-functional streetlights.

Officials said the matter remains under discussion, adding that both the builder and residents share responsibility for maintenance and upkeep. Residents said they had deposited around ₹4 crore of the total of over ₹11 crore in maintenance charges, yet the society is plagued by civic issues.