KATHMANDU: DUDBC, an authorised body to provide construction permits and monitor apartment buildings, has uncovered an illegally built apartment building at Tahachal only after locals lodged a complaint against the developer. Locals

complained about SP Apartment and SP Duplex as both apartments posed a risk after the earthquake.

Prakash Pradhan, the developer of the apartments, took no objection letter from DUDBC on May 20, 2009 to construct a residential cum commercial building. Based on that, Pradhan took approval from Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office for constructing the buildings.

“Pradhan played smart and changed the purpose of the building while seeking approval from KMCO,” said Budhisagar Thapa, Superintendent Engineer at Kathmandu Division Office at DUDBC, adding that permission from the department is required in case of change of purpose for the usage of the building.

Pointing out negligence on the part of KMCO and the Inland Revenue Office, Thapa said, “They should not have given approval and transfer of ownership as the developer has changed the purpose of the building.” Pradhan sold all 24 unit flats in SP Aparment and 10 in SP Duplex. “Both towers were constructed illegally in defiance of the National Building Code,” he informed. He futher said that they are in the process of inspection. According to him, DUDBC will soon take action against Pradhan as per Apartment Ownership Act, 1997.