State govt to decide fate of buildings in green belt

Varanasi: The issue of buildings constructed in the area demarcated as 'green belt' for Varuna corridor project is posing as a major hurdle.
Major constructions are situated in the same two kilometre area, which is being developed as a model of the project. Agencies, including Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) consider that they would have no other option than leaving the issue on the state government to take decision regarding the legally constructed building in this area.
For developing green belt in 50 mt area from both banks of river Varuna, in which pathway, cycling and jogging tracks, gardens and parks are proposed, the VDA and land revenue department also conducted the process of demarcation. Divisional commissioner Nitin Ramesh Gokarn disclosed, "As per initial estimates, the project in entire 11.50 km area between Rameshwar and Varuna-Ganga confluence is expected to complete by June 2017." Before it, the agencies concerned had been given the target to complete a model zone of this project in two km area before monsoon.
Out of 762 construction detected on the proposed green belt of the project, mostly are falling in two pockets including one near Varuna bridge and other near Puranapul. The constructions near Varuna bridge are in the model zone of the project. VDA secretary MP Singh said, "Notices had been issued to the owners of all 762 constructions on June 4 with an instruction to reply within 15 days. The provision of green belt along Varuna had been made in 2014 hence all constructions which were done there after 2014 will be declared illegal. After examining the replies of construction owners against the VDA notices it would become clear that how many buildings are illegal as per the Urban Planning Act."
After completing this exercise the VDA will start actions like demolition of buildings which will be found illegal.
But, Singh said, for the action required against the buildings that are legal, the decision of state government will be sought. Apart from it, state government's decision will also be needed on the issue of private land, which has now become the part of green belt. Commissioner admitted that this process can be time taking.