Srinagar, Nov 28: Srinagar is grappling with a surge in illegal construction, with massive commercial complexes and shopping malls springing up across the city in violation of building codes and zoning laws.
Large structures, including shopping malls, business establishments, and commercial complexes, are being built, often in violation of the regulations set by the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and the Building Operation Controlling Authority (BOCA).
These large concrete structures are altering the city’s aesthetic appeal, which is a prime destination for tourists from across the country. Unauthorized buildings are cropping up in areas like Sanat Nagar, Lal Chowk, Baghat, Barzulla, Natipora, Chanpora, Khanyar, and downtown. Despite this, the higher-ups in the SMC appear to be turning a blind eye to these “illegal constructions,” while the corporation’s ground staff allow developers to violate rules by transforming residential permits into commercial projects.
The issue remains widespread, with illegal structures continuing to grow, as builders bypass regulations outlined in the Srinagar Master Plan 2035. This plan sets zoning laws and construction norms, but it is often flouted due to poor monitoring within local authorities. Though steps have been taken to address the issue, including forming task forces to identify and demolish illegal buildings, these efforts have yet to yield effective results.
Many of these buildings are being constructed without the required permits or approvals, leaving the authorities struggling to enforce existing policies. “We have the laws in place, but the challenge is enforcing them. There’s a lack of coordination between various departments, and political pressure makes it difficult to take decisive action,” said an SMC official, who wished to remain anonymous.
Saika Nabi, Assistant Town Planner at SMC, explained that approvals are granted based on the Floor Space Index (FSI) and Floor Area Ratio (FAR), which vary across different areas. She added, “The Chief Enforcement Officer handles matters related to violations.”
However, when contacted, Suhail Chintsaz, Chief Enforcement Officer of SMC, did not respond.
Local residents are also voicing concerns over the increasing traffic congestion caused by these commercial developments. Many owners are using their parking spaces for business activities, forcing customers to park along the roadside, which obstructs traffic flow. “This is disrupting smooth traffic movement on the roads,” said SP Traffic Muzaffar Shah.
“It’s creating a chaotic urban environment and compromising the quality of life,” said Aijaz Ahmad, a resident of Baghat. “The authorities need to act now before this problem spirals out of control.”
Fayaz Ahmad, a resident of Khanyar, shared similar worries. “We’ve witnessed illegal buildings springing up in our neighborhood, and it’s alarming how quickly they’ve been constructed with no regard for safety or the environment. This is not just about breaking the law anymore; it’s about creating an unsustainable and unsafe urban environment, especially in the event of an earthquake.”
Despite these growing concerns, the SMC continues to claim that it has taken action, including demolishing several illegal structures in recent months. However, the relentless rise of unauthorized buildings suggests otherwise, highlighting the ongoing issue of ineffective enforcement, systemic corruption, and lack of coordination between departments.
On November 9, former Deputy Mayor Sheikh Imran accused SMC officials of ignoring illegal constructions in the city. Imran took to X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Welcome to Srinagar, where illegal construction sites are busier than a politician’s wallet after elections — back in action with a grand comeback. The election recovery scheme is thriving brick by brick with politicians and officials sharing & caring like besties. Wah, kya teamwork hai!” he tweeted.
Imran further criticized the SMC’s enforcement wing, claiming that in Khawajabazar-Nowhatta, a building with unauthorized modifications was approved due to political influence. “Even R&B officials are acting like they’ve taken a vow of silence due to kharcha Pani. ACB: Complaint registered. SMC: Arrey bhai, pehle chai, phir complaint,” he added in his tweet.
With Srinagar’s population steadily increasing and urban sprawl expanding at an unchecked pace, the need for stricter regulations and more effective enforcement has never been more urgent.