New Delhi: A demolition drive by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) in Janakpuri’s ‘Chhoti Sabzi Mandi’ market in West Delhi triggered sharp reactions from shopkeepers on Sunday, with traders alleging that structures built for customer convenience were removed without prior notice.
During the anti-encroachment operation, MCD teams reportedly demolished temporary sheds, platforms and extensions outside shops—structures that vendors say offered protection from sun and rain and helped customers wait and shop comfortably. A section of the market was left strewn with dismantled material and debris, with several traders claiming the action “uprooted” a market that had operated in a similar format for decades.
In a major safety concern, electricity poles reportedly collapsed during the drive, leaving wires hanging in the area and sparking fears of a serious accident. Traders said power supply was affected and argued that the operation lacked adequate safety measures, including barricading and crowd control.
Several shopkeepers insisted that while the civic agency labels these structures as “encroachment”, the market has functioned this way for years and demanded that authorities lay down a clear, uniform policy on what is permitted outside shops. Many vendors also expressed worry over livelihood disruption, claiming that removal of sheds will make business difficult during peak summer and monsoon months.
The civic body’s action was linked to allegations of large-scale encroachment in the market area. Police presence was also reported, though traders questioned why no elected representative visited the spot amid the chaos.
The situation in the market remained tense as traders assessed damage and awaited restoration work, including the reinstallation of poles and clearing of cables and debris.
