Srinagar, Oct 11: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Waheed Para has criticised the Jammu and Kashmir government’s new ‘Ease of Doing Business’ bill, alleging that the provisions could weaken land-use regulations, compromise urban planning and increase environmental risks in the region.
In a post on X, Para reiterated his opposition to the legislation, arguing that provisions allowing commercial activities in residential areas and easing construction approvals could have serious implications for Kashmir’s fragile ecology and flood protection systems.
Para shared a news report on the platform and questioned the extent of commercial development that could be permitted under the new framework, including concerns over the use of agricultural land for commercial structures.
“Investment is welcome, but not at the cost of people’s homes and safety,” Para said, arguing that planning regulations were essential to protect neighbourhoods and the environment.
He claimed that shops and commercial establishments could operate in residential areas under the new provisions, with certain categories of industries and activities remaining excluded.
Para also raised concerns over provisions that, according to his interpretation, allow residential buildings of up to 24 metres in height and 5,000 square metres to be constructed without conventional floor area ratio (FAR) or coverage limits, subject to certification by a government-approved consultant.
He further questioned the approval requirements for malls of comparable size, arguing that the changes could reduce government oversight of large construction projects.
Para linked the changes to Kashmir’s experience of the devastating September 2014 floods, warning that construction affecting drainage channels, wetlands and floodplains could aggravate future flooding.
“We lived through the 2014 floods. We know what happens when drains choke and wetlands and floodplains are built over,” he said, adding that the provisions could put neighbourhoods, the environment and flood protection infrastructure at risk.
Questioning the proposed reliance on consultant certification, Para asked who would ensure accountability and monitor compliance with construction norms.
“A signed paper is not oversight,” he said, arguing that faster approvals should not come at the expense of regulatory safeguards.
The PDP leader maintained that while investment was necessary for Jammu and Kashmir’s economic development, planning regulations were essential to protect residents and ensure sustainable growth.
