HC directs CoP, Corpn to free Loop Road from encroachments

Directing a 24x7 hours vigil to ensure that nobody is allowed to sit or squat on the road or footpath to sell fish, a division bench comprising of Justice Vineet Kothari and Justice R Suresh Kumar said, “There are reports of people encroaching on the land side of the footpath on the Loop Road by raising constructions, while the seaside footpath is yet to be created for which necessary approvals are in the process of being taken by the Corporation.”

“In these circumstances, the encroachment will be identified and removed immediately. The said officials will furnish a Report along with the site photographs on the next date of hearing and they shall also remain present in the court on the next date of hearing,” the bench said while posting the plea to February 21 for further hearing.

Regarding enumeration and registration of fishermen to identify them for grant of benefits, the bench directed the Joint Director of the Fisheries Department to produce the record of such enumeration if it has alreadytaken place.

“If no such enumeration process has already been done so far, the same may be undertaken by the said Department in tandem with the Municipal Corporation and the list of such identified Fishermen/their families with the relevant details including their photos may be produced before this Court on the next date of hearing, so that appropriate directions can be passed in the matter,’ the bench held while seeking a Status Report in respect of the new Fish Market to be constructed in 2 acres of land on the land-side of the Loop Road.