Surat : GIDC Cracks Down on Illegal Constructions in Industrial Estates

Surat : The Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) has raised concerns over a surge in unauthorized construction within the industrial estates of Sachin, Katargam, Pandesara, Ichhapore, and Khatodra in Surat, prompting the corporation to seek police intervention for demolishing these illegal structures.

In a decisive move, the GIDC has urgently reached out to the Surat Police Commissioner, appealing for the deployment of law enforcement personnel to tackle the unlawful constructions cropping up in these strategic industrial zones. The GIDC, in a formal letter, highlighted the blatant disregard for norms exhibited by several industrial plot owners who have initiated or completed unauthorized expansions of their industrial units.

The regional manager of GIDC in Surat articulated in the letter that these industrial estates have regrettably transformed into hubs for unsanctioned construction activities. The alleged violations include extensions and new constructions by plot owners representing various business sectors, carried out without obtaining the essential approvals from GIDC authorities.

To address this burgeoning issue, the GIDC has requested the assistance of approximately 210 police officers, encompassing a range of ranks from police inspectors to constables along with police vans. This joint effort aims to initiate a comprehensive demolition drive within the five GIDC estates in Surat. Notably, the largest deployment of 75 officers is slated for the Sachin GIDC to address the proliferation of unauthorized structures in that area.

Members of the Sachin Industrial Co-operative society limited and have stated that the ruling society at Sachin GIDC is prompting the GIDC and the stated government for taking illegal action.

Insiders familiar with the situation divulged that some industrial unit owners secure plots within the GIDC area at remarkably low prices, subsequently engaging in unauthorized construction activities to expand their business operations.

“This move by the GIDC underscores a significant crackdown on unauthorized constructions within the industrial estates, marking a pivotal step in upholding the regulatory framework and restoring compliance within these vital economic zones.” Said Mahnedra Ramoliya, member of Sachin GIDC. “ As the authorities gear up for the demolition exercise, the focus remains on reinstating adherence to established norms and preserving the integrity of these industrial hubs.”