NKDA Targets Illegal Commercial Use of Residential Buildings in New Town, Kolkata

New Town Residents Raise Concerns Over Ceremonial Halls in Residential Zones

The New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) is set to take strict action against illegal use of residential buildings being converted into commercial spaces in New Town. Authorities plan to issue stop activity and show-cause notices to the owners of at least 10 multi-storey buildings that are operating as ceremonial houses without legal permission.

Violation of Zoning Rules in Action Area I

According to NKDA officials, most of the violators are located in Action Area I, where buildings approved for residential use have been partially or fully repurposed as event venues. Residents from nearby blocks have lodged multiple complaints, stating that such unauthorized events lead to noise pollution, traffic congestion, and disturbance in the neighborhood.

“These buildings were constructed for residential purposes. However, they are being used for frequent social gatherings, which violates urban planning norms,” said an NKDA spokesperson. “We will be issuing formal notices to the property owners involved.”

NKDA Rules: Only 40% of Residential Buildings Can Be Used Commercially

Under existing NKDA guidelines, only 40% of a residential building's total floor area can be used for commercial activities. However, in two additional cases, officials found that the commercial usage exceeds the permissible limit, prompting further investigation.

“Two buildings were found using more space for commercial operations than allowed. We will issue show-cause notices to them as well,” an official confirmed.

Penal Actions for Non-Compliance

NKDA clarified that there are penal provisions under the building rules to penalize such violations. The extent of action will depend on the level of non-compliance.

Concerns Raised Earlier by Local Authorities

This issue was first brought to attention last year when a local gram panchayat member submitted a letter to NKDA. The letter pointed out the existence of several unauthorized commercial setups in residential zones such as New Town AE, AA, BB, BC, and BA blocks, including shops and guest houses operating without valid trade licenses.

By LNN (Liyaans News Network)