High drama ensued at MLA Colony in Banjara Hills on Monday when GHMC officials tried to demolish an ‘illegal’ restaurant, reportedly being run by an actor.
Officials were not allowed to demolish the structure with actor Taraka Ratna arriving at the scene and people gathering in large numbers.
The restaurant management joined the actor and objected to the demolition. The staffers entered into an argument with the officials, drawing the attention of the public and media.
According to Khairatabad Zonal Commissioner Musharraf Ali Farooqi, the building from which the drive-in restaurant was being run, did not have the requisite permission. It did not have the fire NOC, occupancy certificate or lease deed. Though a document was produced as trade licence, its authenticity was doubtful as trade licences are not given if all norms are not followed, he said.
Ramp demolished
The GHMC officials could only manage to demolish the ramp and staircase to cut access to the building. Though the demolition squad arrived on Monday morning with bulldozers and police protection, it was past noon before the building was cleared of furniture and gas cylinders, which delayed the operation, Farooqi informed. This gave enough time to the actor and the crowd to gather and halt the operation.
The GHMC officials did not mention about the next course of action, he added.