Local officials cannot do much as real power lies with DG who sits in Delhi.
Though the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is taking several measures to stop constructions within the 100-metre radius of ASI-protected monuments, still such illegal activities are common in walled city areas of the city. One such example is Astodia Nava Rasta, where several constructions have come up in last few months.
The beautiful Patthar wali Masjid in Astodia, which is an ASI-protected monument, is now surrounded by new constructions, including shops. ASI restricts any sort of new construction with the 100-metre radius of a heritage monument.
Besides, if at all any new construction is to be carried out, prior permission of ASI is required. But this rule seems to have been flouted by many of the residents, as many constructions have taken place within the prohibitory100-metre radius of Patthar wali Masjid. "I have complained about the construction activity to AMC, ASI and Khadia police station. But no action has been taken. Earlier also, many constructions took place here but no action was taken," said Darpan Cyclewala.
When DNA spoke to one of the owners of a plot where construction is going on, he said that he did not violate any rule. "I know that my plot does not lie within 100-metre radius of the heritage monument, so I need not worry about it," said Devarshi Shah.
Senior conservator at ASI, AM Agharia, said: "We have served notices to all in whose plots new constructions are going on. Also, within a week of issuing notice, show-cause notice was sent by Vadodara Circle office of ASI. But the final decision regarding demolition or any other order is taken in New Delhi." He said that while issuing notice, copies are also sent to the municipal commissioner, deputy municipal commissioner, and collector.
"Hence, the civic body has the powers to take action against the illegal construction. But in spite of sending copies to AMC, no action is taken and illegal construction goes on," Agharia said.
Since only the director-general of ASI, whose office is in New Delhi, has power to take actual action on illegal constructions, other officials, including the superintending archaeologist of the circle, cannot do much except serve notices.
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