Lucknow: LDA Issues Demolition Notices to 81 Illegal Buildings, Thousands of Families Face Uncertain Future

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By Tajdar H Zaidi

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has initiated a sweeping crackdown on illegal constructions across the city by issuing demolition notices to 81 buildings. Following court directives, the LDA has given residents a 15-day ultimatum to vacate the premises before demolition action begins. This move has placed thousands of families, who invested their hard-earned savings into purchasing apartments in these buildings, in a state of despair and uncertainty.

The Allahabad High Court had earlier taken up multiple public interest litigation (PIL) writs filed by concerned citizens, highlighting rampant unauthorized constructions in Lucknow. In response, the court directed the LDA to take immediate action against the illegal structures and submit a detailed report on the matter.

A Decade of Illegal Constructions Under Scrutiny

The LDA has presented a comprehensive list to the Allahabad High Court, identifying unauthorized buildings constructed between 2003 and 2013. The report includes crucial details such as the names of the building owners, the floors built without authorization, the number of families residing in these buildings, and the dates on which demolition orders were previously issued.

This timeline of violations has raised serious concerns about accountability within the LDA itself. The fact that these structures were allowed to come up and function for years has put a spotlight on the complicity or negligence of LDA officials who were responsible for ensuring compliance with building regulations during that period. While the current crackdown targets builders who flouted the law, questions linger about why no punitive action has been taken against the LDA officials who enabled these violations.

Impact on Residents: Families Left in Limbo

The residents of these buildings now face an uncertain future. Many of them had invested their life savings into purchasing these homes, unaware of the illegality surrounding their construction. For these families, the demolition orders are nothing short of a nightmare, as they now have to vacate their homes with little clarity on what lies ahead.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed his anguish: “We saved for years to buy a home, and now we are being told that it’s illegal. Why weren’t we informed earlier? Why were these buildings even allowed to come up if they were unauthorized?”

Another resident pointed out that many families had taken loans to purchase their homes and are now burdened with EMIs for houses that are set to be demolished.

LDA’s Response and Plan of Action

LDA Secretary Vivek Srivastava confirmed that notices were dispatched starting January 20, 2025. He clarified that building owners have been instructed to demolish the illegal structures themselves within the 15-day notice period. Should the owners fail to comply, the LDA will undertake the demolition work and recover the associated costs from the building owners.

“The Supreme Court has laid down clear and strict guidelines regarding illegal constructions, and we are obligated to act within the framework of the law,” Srivastava stated. He added, “Residents have been given a reasonable deadline to vacate their homes. Once the notice period ends, we will proceed with the demolitions as planned.”

The LDA’s list also indicates that some of these unauthorized buildings had demolition orders issued years ago, but no action was taken at the time. This further underscores the systemic failures and administrative lapses that allowed these structures to remain operational for so long.

Broader Implications and Public Reaction

The crackdown has sparked widespread debates among residents and urban planners about the implications of such actions. While many agree that unauthorized constructions must be addressed, there is a growing demand for accountability from the LDA itself. Residents and activists are questioning why action is limited to builders and residents, while no responsibility is being fixed on the LDA officials who approved these illegal projects or turned a blind eye to violations.

Several local NGOs and activists have called for a more comprehensive approach to resolving the issue. They argue that demolishing homes without providing alternate solutions or holding complicit officials accountable only punishes innocent residents who were unaware of the illegality.

The residents’ plight has also caught the attention of legal experts, who emphasize the need for a fair and transparent process. “The authorities must ensure that justice is done not only by targeting violators but also by addressing the lapses within the regulatory body. Holding the LDA accountable is equally important to prevent such situations in the future,” said a senior advocate.

A Grim Future for Many

As the 15-day notice period draws closer to its conclusion, thousands of families are left grappling with the harsh reality of losing their homes. With limited options available and no immediate alternatives provided, many residents are unsure of where they will go once the demolitions begin.

Meanwhile, civic groups have urged the government to intervene and provide relief measures for the displaced families. Some have suggested compensatory housing or financial aid to help affected residents rebuild their lives.

The upcoming weeks will be critical as the LDA moves forward with its demolition plan. Whether this action will serve as a deterrent against future violations or exacerbate public grievances remains to be seen. For now, the city of Lucknow watches as its residents prepare to lose not just their homes but also their faith in the system meant to protect them.

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