###Administration Takes Tough Stand on Illegal Hill Cutting: Strict Action Against Violators – District Collector Mehta

Udaipur: Taking a firm stand against illegal cutting of hills and unauthorized construction in and around Udaipur city, the district administration has adopted a zero-tolerance approach. A crucial meeting was held on Friday at the Collector’s residence, chaired by District Collector Namit Mehta, to review cases related to illegal hill cutting, unauthorized constructions, and activities carried out without statutory approvals.

During the meeting, the District Collector conducted a detailed review of the situation and issued clear instructions for immediate and effective action against violators. He sought information regarding approvals granted for roads and other structures constructed on various hills and stated that no leniency would be shown in cases of rule violations.

Collector Mehta directed that every work carried out without legal permission must be thoroughly investigated, and all related documents of the concerned individuals must be scrutinized carefully. Emphasizing the seriousness of the issue, he said that hill cutting is a highly sensitive matter directly linked to environmental protection.

He further warned that if negligence or complicity is found at any level, strict action will be taken not only against private individuals but also against responsible government officers and employees. All concerned departments were instructed to conduct an immediate survey of affected villages and areas and prepare a detailed investigation report.

Investigation Reports to Be Submitted Soon

The District Collector instructed officials to examine all construction activities on hills and ensure strict legal action wherever illegal or unauthorized construction is found. He emphasized that investigation reports must be submitted promptly so that swift action can be initiated against those found guilty.

Highlighting the importance of environmental conservation, Collector Mehta stated that all actions must be taken with a pro-environment approach. Illegal construction and unauthorized hill cutting will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He added that in such cases, cancellation of land allotments (khatedari) along with seizure and legal proceedings will be carried out by the Revenue Department and the Udaipur Development Authority (UDA) as per rules.

The meeting was attended by SDM Girwa Avula Sai Krishna, UDA Deputy Commissioner Surendra B. Patidar, UDA Tehsildar Abhinav Sharma, Ranjit Singh Bittu, Girwa Tehsildar Shyam Singh Charan, Badgaon Tehsildar Hitesh Trivedi, and officials from the Mining Department and other concerned departments.