In a surprising turn of events, contradictory statements between the District Magistrate’s Office and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Yamkeshwar have exposed a serious administrative rift over enforcing fire safety laws under the Uttarakhand Agnishaman Adhiniyam, 2016.
The Fire Department had already raised red flags about Avenue 18, which is operating without mandatory fire safety clearances, and recommended urgent action under Section 16A of the Act. Acting on this report, the SDM said, he is awaiting instruction from DM’s office.
When the GNN team contacted the District Magistrate’s office, officials informed us that the DM has already issued directions to the SDM, Yamkeshwar, instructing him to take action strictly as per the law.
However, the situation became more confusing when GNN spoke directly with Mr. Chauhan, SDM Yamkeshwar. He claimed he could not proceed without a direct written order to seal from the DM.
According to him:
“DM saab likhit order seal ke nahi dengi toh main kuch nahi kar sakta. I have no power.”
When the GNN team further asked, “Should we print this as it is?” he responded:
“Haan, likh do… jab tak DM direct order nahi dengi, I cannot do anything.”
This contradictory communication has put a spotlight on the administrative gap between the two offices, raising concern over whether the enforcement of critical environmental regulations is being taken seriously.
With illegal activity on the riverbed continuing and officials issuing conflicting statements, the responsibility now lies with higher authorities to intervene and ensure that the NGT’s environmental safeguards are implemented without delay.
NGT Ban, Fire Safety Violations & Illegal Possession Allegations: Why Avenue 18 in Yamkeshwar Must Be Sealed Immediately
Serious allegations of illegal possession, unlawful commercial activity, riverbed violations, and fire safety non-compliance have surfaced against Avenue 18, located on Main Shilogi Road, Mohanchatti, Tehsil Yamkeshwar. Documents accessed by Global News Network (GNN) indicate that the establishment continues to operate despite multiple warnings from government departments.
Fire Department Alerted Administration — Action Still Pending
In an official communication, Fire Officer Rajender Singh Khati wrote to the Up-Jila Adhikari, Yamkeshwar demanding strict action under Agni Shaman Adhiniyam 2016, Section 16A, which empowers administration to seal any premises posing fire or life hazards.
However, the office replied that they are still awaiting a written directive from the DM, Pauri Garhwal.
SDM Yamkeshwar’s On-Record Statement to GNN, When the GNN team reached out to SDM Yamkeshwar, Mr. Chauhan, he confirmed:
“DM sahab likhit order kyun nahi de rahi? Jab tak likh kar nahi dengi, main koi action nahi le sakta.”
This statement raises a critical question:
If even the SDM claims he cannot act despite serious violations, who is accountable for public safety?
Major Violations: No Licence, No Compliance, High Risk
Complaints submitted to district authorities allege that:
- Avenue 18 is operating without mandatory hotel/resort licences
- 40+ employees work without ESI or compliance
- Fire NOC and structural safety certification missing
- Commercial events hosted despite repeated departmental warnings
- Property ownership disputes and alleged fake documentation for licences
- Two years of continuous operation without fear of enforcement
- Under the Agni Shaman Adhiniyam (2016 amendment):
- Any establishment that fails to comply with fire-safety directives after notice is liable to immediate sealing.
Avenue 18 clearly falls under this category, say officials familiar with the case.
NGT Ban Violated: Events Organised on Riverbed
The resort is also accused of organising marriage functions and commercial events directly on the riverbed behind the property.
This is in direct violation of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) orders, which state:
NGT Ban: The NGT has banned temporary structures and commercial activities, including beach camping, on the riverbeds of the Hyule river subsidery to Ganga to protect the environment and ecology.
- Despite this blanket prohibition, riverbed activity continues at Avenue 18 — putting lives and the river ecosystem at risk.
- Illegal Possession & Licence Manipulation Allegations
- Flat-buyers have also approached the DM (letter dated 20 November 2025) alleging:
Their lawfully purchased units are not being handed over
The operator, Mr. Sanjeev Ratna and son Tejasvi Ratna, have Retained illegal possession. Used those same units to obtain licences, falsely showing ownership.
These allegations require a full investigation but point toward systematic misuse of authority and documents.
Alleged Political Backing Stalling Action
Locals allege that the operator enjoys informal support from Abhishek, OSD to the Tourism Minister, which may be one reason why no action has been taken even after two years of repeated complaints.
These allegations are part of written complaints and are pending official verification.
Why This Property Must Be Sealed Now
Combining all red flags:
No licence
No fire safety compliance
NGT ban violations
Riverbed events
Labour law violations
Property disputes and alleged document manipulation
Fire Department warnings
SDM stating inability to act
Marriage season footfall increasing
…Avenue 18 poses a clear, present, and escalating danger.
If a mishap occurs, who takes responsibility?
That is the question haunting residents and officials alike.
Public Demand: Seal Avenue 18 & Probe Officials Enabling Illegal Operations
Immediate sealing of Avenue 18
Investigation into the operator,
supporting individuals, and
any officials accused of enabling illegal activity
A full audit of licences and documents submitted
Enforcement of the NGT ban on riverbed activity
A safety assessment before any future operations
As per law, the administration can—and must—act.
The district authorities are yet to issue the critical written order.
