Delhiites, did you know HKV is a 'ticking time bomb'?
If you are a regular at Hauz Khas Village (HKV), you might want to reconsider your next visit. The Delhi HC has again admonished authorities over lack of safety measures in the area. It has now gone a step further and called HKV "a ticking time bomb". The debate on safety of buildings gained steam when a building collapsed in Connaught Place in February.
A serious issue was talked about only after a jolt
On the night of February 3, the roof and wall of an establishment above Jain Book Depot in Connaught Place collapsed. Fortunately, no one was hurt. The owner had reportedly sought permission from NDMC for repairs. Many shopkeepers alleged the municipal body took too long to allow even minor repairs. A week later, the roof of another establishment, a restaurant in L-Block, caved in.
Did the authorities do anything afterwards?
In the aftermath, authorities shut down rooftops of 21 open-air restaurants in CP, including My Bar Headquarters, Lord of the Drinks and Farzi Café. Safety of buildings in other bustling areas including Khan Market and Hauz Khas was questioned. Ironically, in July, an official report by Delhi's three civic bodies flagged only 15 dangerous buildings in the capital.
Exactly how dangerous is Hauz Khas?
Till now, the court has repeatedly warned HKV about lack of safety measures; in case of a fire or attack, people won't even be able to escape or rescue personnel come in, it observed. Moreover, there's still no provision for proper waste disposal. According to petitioners Pankaj Sharma and Anuja Kapur, there are over 120 establishments without approval from relevant authorities.
Is anything being done to correct things?
The Delhi HC has again asked the Jal Board to inspect all premises in HKV with regards to water supply. The SDMC last month said 19 restaurants had been issued closure notices. The court has warned establishment owners that in case of any accident, they will not escape action. On weekends, 15,000 people visit HKV. The place in its current form poses severe risks.
