Illegal encroachments to be removed across KP: Governor
PESHAWAR, Oct 19: Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Monday inspected the ongoing anti-encroachment drive here in Garhi Qamardin and vowed to eliminate illegal encroachments across the province, declaring a policy of zero tolerance against violators regardless of their influence.
The Governor received a briefing from officials of the district administration and the Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) on the ongoing operation against illegal encroachments. He appreciated the efforts of the district administration and relevant departments for launching an effective campaign to reclaim public land.
Governor Kundi said the operation would not remain confined to Peshawar but would be extended across the province. He warned that if encroachments reappeared after being removed, the relevant authorities would be held responsible.
He urged people occupying public spaces illegally to remove their encroachments voluntarily, otherwise strict legal action would be taken. He said no individual, irrespective of political influence or social status, would receive any concession, adding that the era of protecting encroachments through political connections had come to an end.
The Governor criticized the previous provincial government, alleging that anti-encroachment operations were neglected during its tenure.
He said a city-wide cleanliness campaign had also been launched, while measures were being taken to improve traffic management by strengthening traffic regulations to facilitate commuters.
Speaking on the wheat issue, Governor Kundi said an inquiry had already been ordered and its report would be completed within a week before being made public.
He said the issues of electricity and gas load-shedding would be taken up with the federal government and durable solutions would be pursued through close coordination between the federation and the province.
Governor Kundi said the provincial and federal governments were now working in harmony to resolve public issues, unlike in the past when such matters were politicized.
He also stressed the need to eliminate electricity theft, saying public cooperation was essential to end the "Kunda culture", improve the power distribution system and help reduce load-shedding across the province
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