NDMC Declares Palika Dham Complex Unsafe, Orders Immediate Evacuation
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has escalated its safety measures by issuing a fresh public notice on Tuesday, urgently calling for the immediate evacuation of residents from the Palika Dham complex located near Gole Market in Delhi. The council has officially declared the building unsafe for habitation, citing severe structural concerns that pose significant risks to occupants.
Deadline Set and Alternative Housing Offered
In the notice, which was signed by the joint director of NDMC, March 7 has been established as the strict deadline for vacating the premises. The circular emphasized the critical nature of the situation, stating, "This is to bring into public notice that the structure is dilapidated and not at all suitable for living. We urge all residents of Palika Dham to support and cooperate with the administration in getting the premises vacated with immediate effect and save themselves from any risk."
To facilitate a smoother transition, NDMC has concurrently announced bidding dates for alternative municipal quarters. Eligible residents who vacate the complex can apply for Type I and Type II quarters across various NDMC residential complexes, available on a normal licence fee basis. The bidding process is set to conclude on March 7, although initial responses have been mixed, with not all eligible residents participating by the March 3 cutoff.
Historical Context and Structural Concerns
This latest directive follows a similar order issued nearly six months prior, which faced resistance from residents. At that time, assurances were provided by the council that only repair work would be undertaken, and sanitation workers would not be forcibly displaced. The Palika Dham complex, constructed in 1974, comprises 122 flats, with 82 currently occupied. Officials have highlighted that a structural analysis report commissioned by the council strongly advised evacuation due to the building's dangerous condition.
An official elaborated on past efforts, noting, "In July also, the administration offered alternative accommodation in Type II flats at Sarojini Nagar and Lodhi Road to the employees residing in Type I flats and working in NDMC's sanitation and health departments." The council has made it clear that no extensions to the deadline will be granted, with phased enforcement actions planned post-March 7, initially targeting flats allegedly occupied illegally by retired staff members who have already received eviction notices.
Resident Resistance and Allegations
The residents' welfare association (RWA) has raised questions about NDMC's intentions, alleging that the council aims to construct Type III or Type IV high-rise buildings on the site, which could diminish the likelihood of current residents returning. RWA members argue that the complex requires repairs rather than complete reconstruction and view the evacuation notice as a strategic move to clear the land for redevelopment.
Following the issuance of the second order on Tuesday, some residents have reaffirmed their stance against vacating. One resident, speaking anonymously, stated, "We were asked not to vacate the complex, and we will maintain that." This resistance echoes previous instances where residents have challenged NDMC's directives, underscoring ongoing tensions between the administration and the community.
Broader Safety Initiatives in Lutyens' Delhi
This action is part of a larger initiative by NDMC to address unsafe buildings over 50 years old in Lutyens' Delhi. In July, similar measures led to the evacuation of residential complexes at Pandara Park and Prithvi Raj Lane, with notices also being served to Palika Dham residents at that time. The council's proactive approach aims to mitigate risks associated with aging infrastructure, prioritizing public safety in urban areas.
As the March 7 deadline approaches, the situation remains fluid, with NDMC poised to enforce evacuation measures while residents continue to voice their concerns and opposition. The outcome will likely set a precedent for future urban safety and housing policies in Delhi.
