Will the restaurants located at Majnu Ka Tila be closed? Delhi High Court orders action against ‘illegal’ structures

New Delhi: Major action may be taken against some restaurants, cafes and bakeries located in Majnu Ka Tila, a popular commercial area of ​​North-East Delhi. The move is being taken following a Delhi High Court order directing authorities to take action against eateries and other structures that do not have approved building plans and safety standards.

issue of petition

While hearing the case, a bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela found that many unauthorized restaurants and commercial establishments were being operated in Majnu Ka Tila and its surrounding multi-storey buildings. The petition alleged that these buildings were being used for commercial purposes, while they did not have the necessary building approvals and safety standards.

The court said that after reviewing the complaints of the petitioner, we dispose of the petition with directions to take appropriate action under law. The court also clarified that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has already filed a suo motu complaint in this matter.

Order for action within three months

The High Court directed the officials to inform the D.D.A. Take fair and effective decision within three months on the complaint filed by the CPI(M) and take necessary action against the illegal structures. Justice Gedela said in a light tone during the hearing that almost all the restaurants and cafes of Majnu Ka Tila will be removed, except for a small momos stall.

structural flaws

The petition was filed by Arnav Singh and another person, claiming that many buildings in Majnu Ka Tila and New Aruna Nagar are 7-8 storeys high and have illegal basements, terraces and entertainment facilities. The petitioners said that the structure and operating conditions of these buildings pose an immediate and life-threatening danger.

The petitioners pointed out that in most buildings, stairs go only up to the third or fourth floor, making access to upper floors possible only through small, low-capacity lifts. This situation can cause serious danger in any emergency or accident like fire.

Reference to past incidents like fire

Citing the example of the death of 25 people in the fire that broke out in a night club in Goa on December 6, the petitioners said that this accident could also happen in circumstances like Majnu Ka Tila. He demanded immediate action from the court so that the safety of the common people and employees here can be ensured.