MCD, not STF, to approve houses in unauthorised colonies: L-G

After receiving several complaints against the government-constituted Special Task Force (STF) for not living up to expectations in keeping a check on illegal construction, Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna has entrusted the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) with the task of overseeing repair work in unauthorised colonies. HT reports.

After receiving several complaints against the government-constituted Special Task Force (STF) for not living up to expectations in keeping a check on illegal construction, Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna has entrusted the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) with the task of overseeing repair work in unauthorised colonies.

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Chairman of MCD's Standing Committee, Yogendra Chandolia on Friday informed that the Lt Governor has also directed that only the MCD will approve maps for constructing residential houses in villages. The move will decrease the interference of STF in colonies under the MCD's jurisdiction.

The STF was set up to curb illegal constructions. Residents of unauthorised colonies had to get permission from the STF to carry out repair work, including construction of additional rooms, bathrooms etc. Municipal councillors complained to the Standing Committee that the STF "unnecessarily harasses" people by refusing to give permissions.

Following the Lt Governor's direction, now MCD will be the local body to give permissions in colonies under its area. "The municipal commissioner has also been directed to present before the Lt Governor a report about the realities and social as well as economic conditions of the local people for early approval of rules.