Delhi: Unlicensed Meat Shops Near Kanwar Routes Ordered Closed by July 30

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has ordered the closure of all unauthorised meat shops and licensed outlets violating norms along Kanwar Yatra routes and near Kanwar camps. The directive, issued on July 27 following a high-level meeting chaired by Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra, is part of preparations for the annual pilgrimage beginning July 30.

According to an office memorandum, Kanwar camps will be set up at 308 existing sites across Delhi, with additional locations as needed. The camps will operate from July 30, the first day of the Hindu month of Shravan, until August 11, coinciding with Shivratri.

The MCD has been directed to ensure the closure of all unauthorised or unlicensed meat shops, including those violating licence conditions, along and around all Kanwar camp sites. The civic body must also remove encroachments, conduct round-the-clock sanitation, carry out fumigation, and deploy mobile dispensaries at larger camps.

Deputy Commissioners of all MCD zones have been instructed to clear encroachments before the yatra begins and maintain sanitation in three shifts. Fumigation should be done before and during the yatra to prevent water- and vector-borne diseases. Health arrangements include stationing mobile dispensaries at larger camps, following previous years' practice.

Police deployment includes around 1,600 personnel along routes and at camps. Deputy Commissioner of Police (North East) Rahool Alwal stated that Quick Response Vehicles, ambulances, and PCR vans will be stationed. Seven entry points, five major ones from Uttar Pradesh, will have pickets. Additional force of seven companies has been requested.

The MCD will coordinate with District Magistrates, who are nodal officers for issuing no-objection certificates and overseeing camp arrangements.