Pulwama July 7: More than two weeks after carrying out a demolition drive, the Municipal Committee Pulwama has failed to remove the debris at Old Bus Stand in the town causing inconvenience to people.
Locals told Greater Kashmir that a few foot bridges and staircases were demolished during the demolition drive by Municipal Committee Pulwama fifteen days ago in the town, however the debris is still lying there haphazardly which is irking shopkeepers, customers and passersby.
According to the shopkeepers, the demolition was carried out after a dispute between shopkeepers and a shopping complex owner. “The complex owner tried to erect a new stair but the shopkeepers around started objecting to the owner,” said a shopkeeper.
The shopkeepers allege when the issue was raised with the Municipal Committee officials they demolished many foot bridges constructed decades ago.
“The district administration has not lifted the debris of the demolished foot bridges and newly erected staircase from the spot,” alleged a shopkeeper.
Jahangeer Ahmad, a shopkeeper said that the foot bridges were constructed years ago only for the utility of common people and not for any personal use.
He alleged the staircase was built for personal use but the administration has demolished both the footbridges and the staircase.
Another agitated shopkeeper Bashir Ahmad said: “The demolished foot bridges are dangerous for commuters and passerby and may collapse if not lifted soon.”
The shopkeepers requested the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama to look into the matter and construct footbridges meant for the public and not allow anyone to construct anything for personal interests.
When the issue was brought up with the Deputy commissioner Pulwama Baseer Ul Haq Choudhary, he said that the debris will be lifted from the spot within a couple of days.
No illegal construction is being allowed anywhere in Pulwama district and only structures allowed as per law are being allowed to construct, he said.
He added that whatever will be the demand of the general public it will be looked into and allowed to be constructed after taking care of all parameters.