Gurgaon malls told to remove encroachments, display parking availability

Anticipating the rush for Rakshabandhan and Janmashtami, the authorities are likely to take action against malls that continue to allow kiosks, shops, and cafes.

Anticipating the rush for Rakshabandhan and Janmashtami, the authorities are likely to take action against malls that continue to allow kiosks, shops, and cafes — which were not part of the original building plan — in common areas.

Authorities are likely to take action against malls that continue to allow kiosks, shops, and cafes — which were not part of the original building plan — in common areas. (HT File)

The department of town and country planning’s enforcement wing DTP (E) has issued notices to a number of malls on MG Road to remove these encroachments as they not only obstruct the common movement areas but also lead to serious mishaps in case of an emergency.

Malls managements have also been asked to install display units to show the availability of space in their basement parking lots. “The reason for this is that hundreds of cars keep standing in front of malls in green areas, service lanes and open spaces as vehicle owners don’t know about space availability,” said Rajender T Sharma, DTP (E).

The decision follows directions from Gurgaon deputy commissioner TL Satyaprakash who has asked the enforcement wing to curb violations and illegal parking on roads.

Malls on Sohna Road as well standalone shopping centres, including HUDA markets, would come under the scanner of the enforcement department.

When asked whether the notices to malls will be pursued vigorously, Sharma replied in the affirmative, and said that unlike in the past, action will be taken against violators.

“We have been given permission to use the services of five junior engineers of the planning department, which has greatly added to the strength of the enforcement wing. We want strict enforcement in malls and markets as the festival season is coming,” Sharma said.

The management of MGF metropolitan mall said they have removed all kiosks and other fixtures, which were identified by DTCP (E).

“We have not received the notice yet but we have complied with their (DTCP) directions,” said Denis Singh, the mall manager of MGF Metropolitan mall.