New JK laws could put residential areas, flood safety at risk, warns Waheed Para

In a post on X, Para said the government was projecting the laws as measures to promote ease of doing business, but argued that they would allow commercial activities to operate in residential areas, with only certain categories of industries and activities excluded.

He claimed that residential buildings up to 24 metres in height and 5,000 square metres in area could be constructed without floor area ratio (FAR) or coverage limits, subject to a certificate from a government-approved consultant. He also alleged that malls of a similar size could be established without government approval.

Referring to the devastating floods of 2014, Para warned that construction in residential areas and the potential obstruction of drainage channels, wetlands and floodplains could increase the risk of flooding in Kashmir.

“Investment is welcome, but not at the cost of people’s homes and safety,” he said, stressing that planning regulations were necessary to protect residents and the environment.

Para also questioned the oversight mechanism under the new provisions, asking who would be held accountable if residential neighbourhoods underwent rapid commercial development and whether the certification process would ensure adequate scrutiny.

The PDP leader said easing business regulations should not come at the expense of public safety and environmental protection.