Construction site sealed in Coonoor after activists question lack of building approvals

Recently, the Coonoor Municipality (CMC) sealed a construction site at a shopping complex in Highfield due to concerns over illegal activities. The unauthorized construction was brought to light when Confederation of Environment Associations of Nilgiris (CEAN) and other local groups filed a complaint with the municipality. Upon visiting the site alongside police personnel, CMC officials conducted an inspection which led to the sealing of the construction site.

Revenue Department officials reported that they had lodged a complaint with the local police regarding the illegal land levelling at the site. Arun Bellie, an activist who alerted the Municipality, stated that the building in question had been transformed into a commercial facility, which raises questions about safety and planning compliance.

Bellie emphasized that the construction took place without any approvals, as whistle-blowers informed officials. He added that a commercial establishment of this scale operating on this site requires significant regulatory approvals to ensure structural safety and lawful land-use conversion. Bellie further stated that commercial establishments, like individuals, have a 'moral and legal obligation' to comply with existing laws before commencing construction.