Patna: The state government will launch an investigation into whether buildings in the city have been constructed as per approved maps and regulations, particularly focusing on violations of the floor area ratio (FAR). This announcement was made by Urban Development and Housing Minister Jivesh Kumar during a starred question session in the Legislative Council.
FAR Violations Under Scrutiny
The issue was raised by Member Saurabh Kumar, who questioned potential FAR violations in buildings across the capital. Responding to this, Minister Jivesh Kumar stated that a team of senior officials will be formed to conduct a detailed inspection of buildings based on FAR compliance.
“The first phase of investigation will focus on buildings constructed from Saguna Mor to Danapur Station. If violations are found, strict action will be taken against those responsible,” the minister stated. He also emphasized that the department would ensure that such violations do not occur in the future.
Encroachment Issues in Danapur and Karbighiya
The session also highlighted issues related to encroachments in various parts of the city. Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh raised concerns about DJ vehicles and other encroachments from Nariyal Ghat to Takiya Mor in Danapur, as well as traffic congestion in Karbighiya due to illegal structures.
In response, Minister Kumar assured that an investigation would be conducted and necessary steps would be taken to remove encroachments. “If required, I will personally inspect the sites and take action,” he added.
New Vending Zones to Address Encroachment
Responding to Prof. Sanjay Kumar Singh’s query regarding street vendors, the minister stated that vending zones will be created across all cities in the state to regulate street vending.
“In Patna, 14 vending zones have already been established, with 229 vendors allotted space in the Kadamkuan vending zone. Within 15 days, authorities have been directed to identify new locations for additional vending zones,” the minister informed the Council.
Deputy Mayor’s Powers May Be Expanded
During the session, Minister Kumar also revealed that the government is considering expanding the powers of Deputy Mayors. He was responding to a short notice question by Neeraj Kumar, who sought clarification on the authority of Deputy Mayors under the Municipality Act.
“The state government will seek the Law Department’s consultation on this matter,” the minister said. He added that currently, the Deputy Mayor is an ex-officio member of the empowered standing committee and has the authority to act on behalf of the Mayor in their absence.
Ganga Water Supply Expansion in Gaya
In response to a question from Dr. Pramod Kumar, the minister confirmed that Ganga water supply is currently being provided in 53 wards of Gaya. He assured that areas left out will be connected under Phase-3 of the project.
Madhubani Medical College Land to Be Included in Municipal Corporation
Addressing a question by Ghanshyam Thakur, Minister Kumar stated that Madhubani Medical College’s land is not currently under the municipal corporation’s jurisdiction. However, the government has sought a proposal from the District Magistrate (DM) to include it in the corporation area.
