Patna: CM Samrat Choudhary on Tuesday constituted a committee headed by deputy CM Vijay Kumar Choudhary to examine issues arising from notices issued by the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) over commercial activities in residential premises.The committee will comprise ministers Nitish Kumar Mishra, who will serve as member secretary, Shravan Kumar and Ramkripal Yadav, besides MLC Sanjay Kumar Singh. It will examine the matter and work towards finding a practical solution in the public interest.The issue gained prominence after the PMC issued notices to more than 26,000 property owners, including Patna mayor Sita Sahu, following a Supreme Court order concerning unauthorised commercial activities in residential areas.In compliance with the court order, the civic body conducted a ward-wise survey across all six zones. Based on the findings, notices were issued to landowners, builders, developers and non-residential occupants of identified premises, giving them an opportunity to present their cases.According to PMC data, 194 guesthouses, 154 small-scale industries, 39 health clubs, 70 nursing homes, 37 restaurants and 106 hotels were found operating in residential areas of Patna.Under existing regulations, building-plan approval is mandatory before construction and is granted according to prescribed building bylaws and designated land use. A plan can be approved only when the proposed use conforms to applicable land-use norms.The committee will assess the situation and recommend measures balancing regulatory requirements with public concerns.
