MCD begins anti-encroachment drive around Delhi’s Jama Masjid
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New Delhi: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Monday launched an operation to remove encroachments and unauthorised structures from public spaces around Jama Masjid, following directions from the Delhi High Court.
MCD teams entered the area in the morning and began clearing structures that had allegedly occupied parks and other public land near the historic monument. Officials said at least three parks in the locality were being cleared as part of the operation.
“Encroachment of public places and parks was done, which is being removed around the monument,” a senior MCD official said.
The civic body’s action follows a High Court direction asking it to survey illegal constructions and encroachments in and around the Jama Masjid complex and take necessary action for their removal.
Police personnel were deployed in the area to maintain order during the drive. A senior police officer said adequate security arrangements had been made to prevent any law-and-order situation.
“There is an encroachment drive near Jama Masjid by authorities. We have provided adequate security to ensure there is no breach of law and order,” the officer said.
Jama Masjid, one of Delhi’s most prominent Mughal-era landmarks, draws large numbers of worshippers and tourists every day. The neighbourhood around the monument is also a crowded commercial hub, with narrow lanes lined by shops and street vendors.
Officials said the operation was part of the civic body’s compliance with the High Court’s directions on clearing illegal constructions and encroachments from the vicinity of the monument.