Remove encroachments or face action, traders at DLF 1 shopping mall told
illegal encroachments
in common areas of the shopping mall.
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A recent survey found that corridors and passages were blocked with furniture, goods, and kiosks, violating Section 3B of the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas Act, 1975. In the notice, DTP termed these encroachments a safety hazard and directed their removal. Shopkeepers have been summoned on May 14 to submit replies or face legal action under Section 10 of the Act.
The notice said kiosks set up in front of shops on both the basement and ground floors obstruct movement in public corridors.
These temporary stalls reportedly narrow walkways and raise serious concerns about
public safety
in case of emergencies. While some residents have welcomed the crackdown, others say the kiosks add to the shopping experience. "This market has become unsafe to walk through, especially on weekends. The walkways are congested and in case of an emergency, there's no space to evacuate people quickly," said Anjali Mehra, a resident of DLF Phase-1.
"It's high time the authorities enforced the rules," she said. However, shopkeepers see things differently. "We put out displays for more footfall. These small kiosks don't block anything—people like street-style food," said Ravi K, who runs a garment shop. "We're ready to cooperate, but the authorities should also consider a structured way to allow some flexibility," he added.
The notice has sparked a debate on the balance between commercial interests and urban planning norms.
While enforcement has begun, all eyes are now on May 14, when the shop owners are expected to present their case to avoid penalties and possible demolition of unauthorised structures.
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