NHDA to take back land

Shirley WIJESINGHE

Lands belonging to the National Housing Development Authority which were occupied by certain individuals will be taken back soon under the direction of Construction , Engineering, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa.

According to NHDA sources, certain land plots even in the city limits of the country had been used for private purposes under political influence and threat. The NHDA has acquired these lands earlier for the construction of houses.

Some lands were handed over to private parties with the intention of constructing model housing schemes legally. But no construction had been done.

Some house owners of these lands are violating the payment agreement. But they ask deeds from the NHDA. A detailed survey about such lands will be carried out by a special investigation team consisting of four officers of the NHDA under the direction of Minister Weerawansa. The survey should be completed before the end of August, according to the Minister’s instructions. An NHDA high official told the Daily News yesterday that a data bank will be established at the NHDA Head Office after conducting the survey.

The Ministry estimated that over 500 acres of such land plots are in the country.