Taking suo moto cognisance of a report in a local newspaper, SHRC yesterday issued notices to the Lakes and Waterways Development Authority, Housing and Urban Development Department, Chief Wildlife Warden and Srinagar Municipal Corporation, seeking a report on the construction of the farm house near the national park.
The newspaper on April 24 had reported that in violation of rules and regulations, a palatial farm house was being constructed right outside the main gate of the Dachigam National Park, home of endangered Kashmir Stag (Hangul).
The report had quoted local residents alleging that the authorities were not allowing them to carry out necessary repairs to their houses which were damaged during the last month's windstorm, while the illegal construction of the farm house was going on unabated.
On the basis of the report, the SHRC noted that "perusal of the news story prima facie shows that construction of the farmhouse is sure to cause damage to the environment as the same is being allegedly constructed right at the gate of Dachigam National Park."
The case has been fixed for hearing on June 7, 2012. PTI MIJ TA KAS
