Noida: Residents of Kartik Kunj Apartments in Sector 44 complained of growing frustration over a long-standing issue of encroachment in front of the society complex that persisted for nearly two decades. The land, reportedly noted as a sector park as per the Noida Master Plan, was overtaken by encroachers, residents said, raising serious concerns about public safety, hygiene, and community well-being.“What was meant to be a park for the sector has turned into a hub for criminal activities and unhygienic conditions due to the said encroachment, deeply impacting the safety and health of our residents,” said Avadesh Singh, secretary of the Kartik Kunj Residents’ Welfare Association (KKRWA).Residents who own apartments here said they had paid a premium to purchase park-facing houses here. However, they are now being deprived of the amenities and benefits they were promised, they added.“This is both unfair and unacceptable given the amount we invested in our homes,” said Singh, one of the homebuyers.The unabated encroachment has also resulted in a surge in antisocial behaviour, illegal dumping and waterlogging, creating an environment for disease and criminal activities to thrive, residents claimed. “This is more than just an inconvenience; it is a serious safety hazard,” another resident said.Previously, the Authority had removed encroachments at the spot, but the action had not yielded results in the long run. Residents said encroachments have kept popping up over the years.The KKRWA has now filed a formal complaint with the additional CEO (ACEO) of Noida Authority, seeking immediate intervention for the removal of the illegal occupants. A letter issued to the Authority outlined the urgency of the situation, making clear that the health and safety of the residents are in jeopardy.“We are hopeful that necessary measures would be taken to address our concerns. We urge the Authority to take decisive action and provide the necessary police support to ensure the encroachments are cleared,” said a resident.A response from the Authority is awaited.
