Shirur / Nhavare, Staff Reporter
At a time when the government is promoting water conservation, protection of natural water resources and the revival of streams and drainage channels, a serious controversy has emerged in Shirur over allegations that a natural stream was filled up to facilitate the construction of a government office building.
Citizens have alleged that the natural flow of a stream passing through the site of the new building of the Shirur Land Records Office was blocked during construction. The issue has raised questions about the functioning of the Revenue Department and the Land Records Administration.
The matter came to light when local residents pointed out that construction work was being carried out after allegedly eliminating the natural watercourse passing through the premises. Citizens have raised several questions, including how permission was granted for construction on land containing a natural drainage channel, whether the concerned authorities conducted an on-site inspection and whether approval was obtained from the competent authority to alter or block the stream.
Taking cognisance of the complaints, Shirur Sub-Divisional Officer Vitthal Joshi had directed Tehsildar Balasaheb Mhaske to conduct a detailed inquiry and submit a comprehensive report.
However, despite the inquiry orders, there is still no clarity regarding the findings, whether the investigation has been completed or whether any action has been initiated against those responsible. This lack of information has led to growing resentment among local residents.
Citizens have also questioned whether the Revenue Department verified the relevant land records before finalising the construction site. They have sought clarification on whether the natural watercourse was officially recorded in government documents and whether the construction agency fulfilled its responsibility to preserve the natural drainage route.
The controversy has also raised concerns about the apparent contradiction between the government's water conservation initiatives and the alleged destruction of a natural water resource for constructing a government building.
"Should a natural water source be destroyed merely to construct a government building?" residents have questioned, demanding accountability from the administration.
Citizens are now urging the district administration to make public the construction permissions, land records, official documentation concerning the natural stream and the findings of the inquiry. They have also demanded strict action against those found responsible for any irregularities.
Inquiry Ordered, But When Will Action Follow?
The key questions remain unanswered: Who is responsible for allegedly blocking the natural stream in Shirur, and why has no clear action been communicated despite the inquiry orders?
Residents are demanding answers from the administration and seeking transparency in the entire matter.
Attempts were made to contact Shirur Tehsildar Balasaheb Mhaske for his comments on the issue, but he could not be reached.
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