Authorities in Noida are facing increasing challenges due to the construction of unauthorized religious structures inside residential societies and public parks. Officials say such constructions are often carried out by residents without obtaining the required permissions from the local administration.
According to officials, disputes over these structures have become frequent as residents sometimes build temples or other religious structures on common land without official approval.
Residents Construct Structures Despite Objections
In one such case linked to the Vrindavan Park picnic spot, residents allegedly proceeded with the construction of a temple even after objections were raised.
Officials said attempts were made to stop the construction, but the people involved continued the work despite warnings.
“We tried stopping them but they did not listen. Even the builder supported us and said that the temple should not be constructed without approval. But the allottees kept going ahead with the construction,” an official said.
Authorities Struggle With Limited Staff
Officials admitted that such cases are becoming common across the city, especially as residential societies continue to expand rapidly.
“There are numerous cases like this. Issues related to unauthorized religious structures come up almost every day. People are constructing such structures on their own. We try to enforce rules, but our staff is limited while the number of societies and residents keeps increasing,” an official said.
Authorities say enforcing regulations becomes difficult once a structure is completed, as demolition can trigger protests and legal disputes.
Legal Cases and Public Debate Continue
The matter related to the Vrindavan Park site is currently pending before the Allahabad High Court, where legal proceedings are underway.
Meanwhile, another controversial structure built in the central park of Sector 75 has remained in place despite objections from some residents.
Residents had reportedly raised concerns on social media for months before the temple was completed.
A resident who opposed the construction earlier said, “Once it was constructed, what can you do?”
Balancing Religious Sentiments and Urban Rules
Urban planners and civic authorities say such incidents highlight the challenge of balancing religious sentiments with urban planning rules and land-use regulations.
Officials maintain that public parks and common spaces are meant for community use and that any construction requires proper approval from authorities.
