The Housing Department’s notification was met with criticism

Srinagar, June 27: The Environment Policy Group (EPG) has expressed concern over the recent notification issued by the Principal Secretary, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Secretary, EPG expressed surprise at the Notification No.: OM dated June 3, 2024, which relates to the TDR policy. The group stressed that it was only informed of the notification yesterday and by then the deadline for submitting responses and objections had already passed.

Dr MM Shuja, Co-Convener of EPG, said, “Initiative and outreach to the public are basic requirements that cannot be skipped.”

“The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) only became aware of the above notification yesterday. Surprisingly, the deadline for submitting responses/objections has already passed. It is the government’s responsibility to pass legislation or make changes. However, a proper and appropriate process for providing opportunities for public consultation on proposed government policies on TDRs leaves much to be desired. Initiative and public inquiry are essential requirements and cannot be abolished.”