Residents express deep concern over construction activities on vacant land adjacent to Udhares Tower 11, amid allegations that prime plot was sold well below market value
Residents of the "Udares" towers are expressing concern over sudden construction projects on adjacent vacant plots, fearing the loss of natural ventilation and open space in the area. While these lands were previously designated as green zones, there are now allegations that they were sold below market value, and residents claim that both HDC and FDC have failed to provide transparent information regarding the developments.
Construction work is currently underway on the vacant lot located outside Udhares Tower 11. | RaajjeMV
Residents of Tower 11 in the Fahi Dhiriulhun (Fahi) flats have expressed growing concern after the vacant plot adjacent to the building was abruptly cordoned off for construction.
A resident of Udhares Tower 11 informed RaajjeMV that the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC), which manages the flats, had previously stated that the vacant plot adjacent to the tower on Nirolhu Magu was designated as a green area. The resident further noted they were informed that the land is under the jurisdiction of the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and would be developed into a recreational public space.
However, he noted that the plot was abruptly closed off and construction work has already commenced. He added that rumors are circulating regarding plans to develop a 4 to 10-story building on the site. Furthermore, he stated that many people allege the land was sold at a price significantly below its market value.
Furthermore, he stated that constructing a building on that plot would cause significant hardship for the residents. He noted that it would obstruct the ventilation and views for the flats in Towers 11 and 12 of the Udhares complex. He added that people relocate to social housing units in search of a pleasant and tranquil lifestyle, but such developments strip away that sense of well-being.
Highlighting that this is a concern shared by many citizens, the individual stated that no response has been received despite submitting complaints to both the FDC and HDC. He further noted that while numerous people have also lodged complaints via email, they remain in the dark regarding the status of the matter.
Furthermore, the individual stated that information has been received regarding the sale of the vacant lot adjacent to Tower 16 of the Aman Dhodhi towers. He noted that the area has already been cordoned off for construction work. He further highlighted that no relevant corporation or company has provided any clarification regarding the status of this land.
Many have expressed concern that if the land surrounding the towers built under the "Gedhoruveriya" housing scheme is sold for further construction, residents will be left without parks or open green spaces to relax and unwind.
However, comments regarding this matter could not be obtained from either HDC or FDC.
