TAXILA: In an operation against illegal commercial activities and defaulters of the commercialisation fee, the Wah Cantonment Board (WCB) enforcement teams issued notices to the lease holders of residential properties being used for commercial purposes.

According to the official sources, in accordance with the direction of the Director General Military Lands and Cantonments (DGML&C), action was taken against illegitimate shops and other commercial properties in residential areas.

The officials said that under Cantonment Act 1924 Sections 185 and 256, the owners would be notified to cease and refrain from any such business activities in these residential buildings.

In the event of non-compliance, under phase 2 of this crackdown, their lease a g r e e m e n t would be cancelled.

`Such buildings would be sealed in the first phase, while their leases would be cancelled in the second phase,` the official added. The sources said that these unauthorised commercial buildings had been constructed without the necessary approvals and no objection certificate (NOC), in violation of the Cantonment Board Building and Zoning Regulations.

According to official sources, as many as 423 residential premises have been identi-Ked that are illegally used for commercial purposes, evading taxes. The sources said that 203 premises were identified in Lalarulch only, while 220 other premises were identified in Gulistan Colony, 9-F Marl(et, Officer Colony, Laig Ali Chowk, 15-G Market, and Anwar Chowk.

The sources said these premises leased for residential purposes were being used as private enterprises such as beauty parlours, hair salons, shops, clinics, display centres, medical labs, cafes, mobile shops, sanitary shops, academies, and other commercial activities.

When contacted, Cantonment Executive Officer Ms Maria Jabeen Khan informed that residential properties are being illegally used for commercialpurposes,includingschools,colleges,academies, and shops. Markets, hospitals, and beauty parlours are established, while the trade unions are encouraging people to breal( the law instead of fulfilling their responsibilities.

Responding to a question, she said that the board has already issued notices to all properties falling under the category of non-confirming users to end business activities in residentialbuildings.

Published in Dawn, March 19th, 2024