Supreme Court orders removal of hawkers in Delhi

New Delhi, May 5 (UNI) The Supreme Court today directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi(MCD) to remove all 'pukka and semi-pukka' structures erected by hawkers on footpaths, roads, pavements and streets in Delhi.

A bench comprising Mr Justice B P Singh and Mr Justice Altamas Kabir also directed all the SHO's of Delhi to see that a hawker once removed does not come back.

The court directed that a copy of this order be sent to Delhi Police Commissioner for compliance. The SHO will be held personally responsible if any hawker reoccupies the place from where he was removed.

The court also directed the authorities to display notice board in the areas which are no hawking zones. The court also warned that if areas were reoccupied, violaters of the court order will be summoned for contempt of Supreme Court.

The court refused to modify or change its order dated March 3 2006, ordering removal of all squatters and hawkers from the roads, pavements and streets of the national capital.

Following the SC directive, the Central Government came out with a scheme for removal of these hawkers in a phased manner. The court observed that if hawkers were neccessary, then they should be relocated at one place under hygenic conditions with provision of basic civic amenities .

The court adjourned the hearing till July 21, 2006.

UNI AKS/SC OM KN1712