Illegal trade is constantly on the rise in Hauz Khas village of south Delhi, under patronage of municipal authorities and the police. A majority of eateries, including some big restaurants, a fairly large number of fashion stores, art galleries and other business houses are operating without obtaining general trade or health licences from the South Delhi Municipal Corporation.
What’s more surprising is that none of the 150-plus such commercial establishments have got their building plans sanctioned. To add to this gross irregularity is the ‘pick and choose’ policy of authorities in their so-called action against violations.
Failure of the civic body in checking illegal commercial activities speaks volumes of their lethargic attitude. They have failed to act despite the Delhi High Court objecting to rampant unauthorised construction and business activities in the village.
As many as 42 restaurants, 57 fashion stores, 40 art galleries and 20 film studios are operating in Hauz Khas village. “Only 27 of these commercial units have obtained health and trade licences. A sum of `1.2 crore from these units is due as conversion charges. We have been carrying out demolition activities against illegal constructions, after getting complaints,” said Mukesh Yadav, SDMC director (Press &
information).
Recently, the Delhi High Court also directed owners of these outlets to respond as to why they did not have a health or liquor licence from the excise department, clearance from the fire department or approval from the department of tourism of the State Government.
The high court also demanded an explanation from the South Delhi Municipal Corporation and Delhi Police on why they allowed unauthorised construction to mushroom.
But while officials have maintained a stoic silence over the issue, a senior leader of the corporation accused officials and local police of patronising illegal commercial activities. This, according to him, not only caused huge revenue loss to the civic body but also changes the entire character of Hauz Khas village.
“local officials, who have turned a blind eye to the mess, are to be blamed for commercialisation of Hauz Khas village. Commercialisation was initially planned for providing residents with business opportunity. But the purpose has been entirely defeated,” he said, alleging that action is taken against such units that refuse to pay the fixed amount to local officials.
According to the corporation, it has carried out seven major demolitions here last month.
Illegal constructions and commercial activities are also threatening ancient monuments nearby and are in violation of the Masterplan. These monuments, built in the 13th and 14th century, are protected by the Archeological Survey of India and according to National Monument Authority rules, no construction activity can be done within 100 metres.
According to DDA notification on January 17, 2011, it is mandatory to get building plans sanctioned in villages. However, officials claim that no such building plan has been sanctioned in the last
few years.