Affidavit filed on the illegal construction of skywalk in Dhamapur lake, Malvan, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, 23/10/2020
Compliance affidavit by the District Collector, Sindhudurg in the matter of Dr. Harishchandra Purshottam Natu & Others Vs The Executive Engineer, Irrigation Department, Sindhudurg & Others dated 23/10/2020.
The matter related to the illegal construction of skywalk in Dhamapur lake, Malvan. Site inspection report revealed construction inside of about 7 meter towards the lake.
The PWD, Sawantwadi, Sindhudurg had violated NOC of the Irrigation Department and built the illegal structure but despite continuous follow ups, repeated meetings, office orders the PWD, Sawantwadi had:
1. Failed to deposit fine of 1.5 crore to the State Biodiversity Fund
2. Did not start demolition of the illegal structure till October 21, 2020.
In pursuance to the NGT order October 9, 2020 Collector Sindhudurg attached official bank account of PWD to the tune of 1.5 crores.
Due to the "lethargic and negligent attitude" of PWD in implementing orders of NGT and Collector, Sindhudurg, departmental enquiry against PWD was proposed, after which efforts were made for the removal of the illegal structure. The PWD's action taken report states that 20% of the slab has been demolished till October 23, 2020, according to the affidavit.