Penalty revision under consideration; intensified enforcement in Connaught Place and Janpath

Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma, New Delhi

Following directions from the Delhi High Court, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has stepped up enforcement against illegal vending across its jurisdiction, particularly in high-footfall commercial hubs such as Connaught Place and Janpath.


Senior NDMC officials confirmed that a review of existing penalty structures is underway, with a view to enhancing fines that are currently considered outdated and insufficient to deter repeated violations. Presently, penalties for illegal vending range between ₹50 and ₹1,000.


Over the past 30 days, multiple enforcement drives have been conducted, resulting in the seizure of a significant quantity of goods and issuance of challans to violators. Confiscated items were released only upon payment of prescribed fines, officials added.


The intensified action is aimed at ensuring that public spaces—especially those frequented by tourists and shoppers—remain free from encroachments. Authorities noted that despite repeated drives, instances of re-emergence of illegal vending have been observed in certain pockets, prompting warnings of stricter action against repeat offenders.


To strengthen monitoring, NDMC has enhanced its surveillance mechanism through real-time CCTV tracking in key market areas. Additionally, citizens are being encouraged to report instances of illegal vending and encroachment via the NDMC 311 application.


Officials further stated that a digital survey has been undertaken to identify and certify eligible street vendors, while enforcement action continues against unauthorized operators. The ongoing campaign is being executed in coordination with Delhi Police.


Recent operations in Connaught Place and Janpath alone led to the seizure of over 300 items. NDMC has reiterated that repeat violations will invite stringent penalties as part of its zero-tolerance approach in compliance with High Court directives.