By Ruth Orji
The Anambra State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has intensified enforcement of physical planning laws and regulations as part of the state government’s urban regeneration drive.
The Honourable Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, stated this on September 1 during the ministry’s enforcement exercise at St. Mary’s New Road Bus Stop, Uruagu, Nnewi North Local Government where illegal structures were brought down as well as scores of shanties.
The exercise, tagged “Operation Zero Shanties and Show Your Building Permit,” was aimed at reinforcing the state government’s commitment to urban regeneration, environmental improvement and strict compliance with physical planning regulations.
Speaking with newsmen shortly after the exercise at St. Mary’s, Ojukwu reiterated the ministry’s zero-tolerance policy towards the erection of buildings without the required planning permits, as well as the incessant defacement of the environment with shanties.
The Commissioner called on business owners operating from shanties to vacate such structures, warning that no excuses would be entertained when the enforcement team visited their locations for demolition. He stressed the need for residents and developers to comply with the state’s physical planning laws and regulations.
Meanwhile, poorly constructed buildings as well as illegal structures along Akabukwu Road, as well as St Mary’s Road were demolished during the exercise to safeguard lives of prospective occupants.
Ojukwu maintained that enforcing physical planning laws was in the public interest and essential to ensuring a safe, orderly and sustainable environment.
Ruth is of the Ministry of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State.
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