Civic body to revamp halls, landfill sites

Residents of north Delhi can plan more picnics and parties with the civic authorities deciding to revamp its community halls and landfill sites.

Residents of north Delhi can plan more picnics and parties with the civic authorities deciding to revamp its community halls and landfill sites.

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In a special budget meeting on Thursday, the North Delhi Municipal Corporation's deliberative wing said that Novelty Cinema, Shehnai banquet hall and Cups & Saucer Restaurant would be redeveloped.

"We will also plant trees and shrubs at the Balaswa landfill site so that it becomes a picnic spot and residents can visit the place," said Yogender Chandolia, chairman, standing committee. The landfill sites that are no longer in use will be covered with fresh soil after which trees will be planted on top turning it into a park.

The Shehnai banquet hall on Asaf Ali Road and Cups & Saucer Restaurant near Minto Bridge will be redeveloped into swanky avatars. The properties were earlier leased out to a private contractor. Even after the license expired, the contractor refused to vacate the premises. The matter later reached the court and in February 2010, the Delhi High Court ruled in the Municipal Corporation’s favour.

The corporation plans to simplify its licensing policy by making it available online. Traders in the city will be able to download the forms and submit them in offices without harassment.

"Right now traders are asked for 20 documents just for renewing licences. We will remove all such problems," said Chandolia.

The corporation will also identify vacant plots in its jurisdiction and build commercial complexes that will be sources of income.