GURUGRAM: A major enforcement operation took place in the upscale Sushant Lok 1 township over the weekend in response to evident breaches of residential zoning regulations.
Violations included the use of crèche plots for schools and dance training facilities, as well as a girls’ hostel in a residential area. Consequently, the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) sealed three crucial locations.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with local authorities and personnel from Sector 29 police and the Sushant Lok police post.
In the first instance, six rooms in a plot intended for crèche use in C-2 Block were sealed. The premises were being misused for unauthorized activities, including primary and secondary schooling and dance training, all of which are not allowed in residential crèche plots.
This misuse prompted significant concerns regarding child safety, traffic issues, and violations of approved land use.
The second case involved sealing an entire building in B-Block, which was identified as operating a girls’ hostel and other commercial activities, despite being located in a residential zone.
Officials noted that converting residential premises into high-density commercial accommodations, such as hostels, not only contravenes zoning laws but also disrupts the peaceful character of the neighborhood and strains civic infrastructure.
One of the most alarming violations was the unauthorized construction in the stilt (parking) area of a residential building, despite the property having an occupation certificate. Authorities discovered ongoing brickwork and partitioning efforts, indicating attempts to convert the stilt area into livable or commercial spaces.
The area was quickly sealed to curb further misuse.
A senior DTCP official stated, “Enforcement operations are essential to preserve the planned nature of Gurgaon’s residential areas. Illegal conversions not only violate development standards but also endanger structural safety and public convenience.”
Resident reactions were varied. Kavita Sharma, a long-time resident of Sushant Lok 1, welcomed the crackdown, saying, “I’m pleased that authorities are finally taking action. These illegal setups were transforming our quiet street into a noisy, congested commercial zone.”
Conversely, Ramesh Arora, a property owner in the area, expressed frustration, stating, “There’s no clear communication or warnings. People invest their savings into these properties. A little leniency or at least prior notice would be beneficial.”
