Taking strict notice of encroachments in Saidpur village, Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman Engineer Farkhand Iqbal on Saturday said illegal constructions had destroyed the natural beauty and mars serenity of environment, adding that all encroachments and illegal structures would be removed on a priority basis to make Saidpur an attraction again.
During his visit to the village, he said the rich cultural traditions and heritage were the real identity of Saidpur, adding that foreigners as well as local visitors had been showing their deep interest in the cultural activities initiated by the CDA at Saidpur. He said these encroachments had fast becoming a nuisance and hurdle for tourism. He directed the concerned formations of the authority to remove these encroachments at a faster pace, especially those which have cropped up in front of hotels and restaurants. He also ordered the Sanitation Directorate to chalk out a comprehensive plan for improving the sanitation conditions, to prevent any incident erupting out of unhygienic condition in the area. Farkhand Iqbal said the CDA was making all-out efforts to promote entertainment and cultural activities for the people from all walks of life to build soft image of the country at national as well as international level, adding that Saidpur reflected the historical cultural heritage, which would be preserved to attract more visitors with the passage of time.
He directed the officials to restore the original plan designed by the CDA and not to allow any space to encroachers. He also directed the chief of Municipal Administration to take immediate action against the encroachment and ensure hygienic condition in the hotels and restaurants in the village. He also directed for appropriate car parking and allied facilities in the area. The CDA chief said he would visit Saidpur again very soon for inspection, adding that if the targets in the light of his directions were not achieved, appropriate action would be taken against the responsible officers.
