The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has taken significant action against ten coaching centres and libraries in Shahdara (South Zone), Karol Bagh, and Najafgarh Zone for violating building bylaws. On Wednesday, the MCD sealed the basements of these establishments due to the infractions.
This move follows the tragic deaths of three IAS aspirants who drowned when rainwater flooded the basement of a coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi.
Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi emphasised the importance of this crackdown in a post on X, stating that the MCD's sealing drive continues to set an example for all coaching centres that disregard the rules. The MCD's action is part of a broader effort to enforce building regulations strictly and ensure the safety and security of students and citizens.
In the Karol Bagh Zone, four basements operating as illegal libraries were sealed. Similarly, in Shahdara South Zone, four basements of coaching centres and libraries were sealed, and in Najafgarh Zone, two basements faced the same action. This decisive measure is intended to curb the misuse of properties and enforce adherence to building bylaws across the city.
In addition to sealing the basements, the MCD has issued notices to coaching centres and property owners for property misuse and building bylaw violations. The corporation is also conducting a citywide survey to identify other coaching centres and properties that are operating illegally in basements.
This proactive approach aims to prevent further violations and safeguard the wellbeing of students and the general public.
While the MCD takes steps to enforce building laws, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation into the deaths of the three UPSC aspirants.
The Delhi High Court transferred the case to the CBI last week, citing flaws in the Delhi Police’s investigation and concerns about potential corruption by public servants. This shift to the CBI reflects the seriousness of the case and the need for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The recent sealing of illegal basements by the MCD is a critical step in addressing building bylaw violations and ensuring the safety of educational facilities in Delhi. The tragic incident in Old Rajinder Nagar has highlighted the urgent need for stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The MCD's actions demonstrate a commitment to upholding the law and protecting the lives of students who attend these coaching centres and libraries.
Moving forward, the MCD's continued efforts to survey and identify properties violating building bylaws will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of Delhi's educational infrastructure.
The cooperation of property owners and coaching centre operators will be essential in achieving compliance and ensuring that educational spaces are safe and legally compliant.
The involvement of the CBI in investigating the IAS aspirants' deaths further underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in addressing such critical issues.
As the MCD continues its sealing drive and enforcement activities, it is imperative for all stakeholders to prioritise safety and adhere to the established regulations.
The tragic loss of life serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting building bylaws and the importance of proactive measures to prevent such incidents. Through sustained efforts and cooperation, the goal of a safer and more compliant educational environment in Delhi can be realised.
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