Today, the Delhi High Court flagged serious regulatory lapses in Majnu Ka Tila, urging civic authorities to act against cafes and restaurants allegedly functioning without approved building plans and essential safety clearances.
The issue arose from a public interest litigation pointing out that multiple eateries were functioning from multi-storey buildings in Majnu Ka Tila, located along the Yamuna River. The petition alleged that these structures were being used for commercial purposes without approval, despite the area’s riverbank location and heavy public movement.
The petitioners sought strict action against unauthorised constructions and establishments lacking sanctioned plans. Directions were also sought against the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and Delhi Fire Services to enforce the National Building Code and fire safety norms, warning of serious risks to public safety, particularly given the large number of students and visitors in the area.
Responding to the plea, counsel for the Delhi Development Authority informed the Court that a suo motu complaint had already been registered with the Special Task Force based on the issues flagged in the PIL.
A Division Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela noted that since the DDA had already set the process in motion, the grievances were under active consideration. Justice Gedela orally remarked on the urgency of the matter, noting the significant presence of university students in the locality. In a lighter vein, the Chief Justice commented that “except the momo cart, everything shall be removed,” emphasising the Court’s concern over unchecked commercial activity.
Disposing of the PIL, the Court directed the concerned authorities to examine the complaint registered by the DDA and take action as warranted under law. It further ordered that the exercise be carried out expeditiously, preferably within a period of three months.
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