Thu Nov 28 16:13:07 UTC 2024: ## Andhra Pradesh TIDCO Chairman Cracks Down on Illegal Construction in Housing Colonies
**NELLORE, Andhra Pradesh (November 28, 2024):** Vemulapati Ajay Kumar, chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Township and Infrastructure Development Corporation (APTIDCO), has launched a crackdown on illegal construction and encroachment in TIDCO housing colonies across the state. His efforts are focused on improving occupancy rates and security in these often-underutilized housing societies.
The Allipuram housing colony in SPSR Nellore district, the second largest in the Telugu states with over 11,000 units, is a key focus. While 80% of the houses are built, less than 2,000 are occupied, with numerous unauthorized commercial units operating within the complex.
A particularly egregious instance of encroachment occurred in the Venkateswarapuram colony, where approximately 800 square yards of land were illegally used to construct a religious building. Following a tip-off from Jana Sena Party leader Nune Mallikarjun Yadav, the illegal structure was demolished Wednesday in a joint operation involving APTIDCO, police, and municipal workers.
Kumar stated that local gangs with alleged political backing were behind the illegal construction. He emphasized that while the government will allocate land for religious structures with proper permits, encroachment will not be tolerated. He also highlighted the issue of low occupancy, leading to property damage and attracting anti-social elements. Less than 20% of the 20,000 houses in Nellore district are currently occupied.
To improve security, Kumar has requested increased police presence, CCTV surveillance, and drone monitoring across all TIDCO housing societies. He has met with the Home Minister to discuss these security measures. The goal is to transform Allipuram into a model colony, addressing both the issue of illegal constructions and low occupancy rates.
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