LUCKNOW: Cracking the whip on unauthorised constructions in the state, chief secretaryJawed Usmani on Thursday said that stringent action, including dismissal from service, will be initiated against any officer found aiding and abetting illegal construction in the state. In a meeting with officials of the housing department, Usmani said that a layout plan of all unauthorised construction that was carried out before 2008 should be prepared and the structures charged development taxes, as applicable. The chief secretary also said notifications should be issued, along with layout plans to bring all such unauthorised colonies under the tax net.

Principal secretary, housing, Pravir Kumar identified 2463 unauthorised colonies in 31 development authorities across Uttar Pradesh. Usmani, asking the officials to investigate into why illegal construction had not been brought down despite orders, said action must also be initiated against those officers who wilfully went against the orders to destroy illegal constructions in the state.