Location: Jaina Tower I, District Centre, Janakpuri
Status: Vacated ATM kiosk; renovation underway to rent it out again
Issue: The shop is an unauthorised construction not shown on the sanctioned building plan
What the photos show
- A shuttered corner bay carved out between the main columns of the arcade, with workers preparing the interior for reuse.
- Exposed, dangling electrical cables and a soot-stained fascia—clear signs of poor electrical safety and past heat/soot deposition.
- Temporary wooden ladders and debris spilling into the pedestrian corridor, narrowing the public passage/egress.
Why this shop is illegal
- Not on the sanctioned plan: The unit does not exist in the original building drawings/completion certificate. Creating a shop by enclosing the arcade/column bay is an unauthorised deviation.
- Encroachment on common passage: The arcade is meant for public movement and emergency evacuation. Converting it into a shop violates building-bye-laws and fire-safety norms.
- Change of use without approvals: A bank ATM/retail outlet requires explicit approvals (layout, electrical, fire clearances). None are visible at site.
- Electrical/fire hazards: Open wiring, combustible partitions and a narrowed exit passage increase fire load and can obstruct evacuation—grounds for DFS to withhold/deny NOC renewal.
Why it’s dangerous
- Blocks evacuation routes: During a fire, seconds matter. Any narrowing of the corridor or obstruction at the column line can cause a crush point.
- Higher ignition risk: Kiosks with ATMs/computers add heat load, UPS batteries and wiring—exactly where the building needs the safest, clearest zone.
- Structural & façade damage: Cutting/fastening into column bays and cladding invites water ingress and spalling, sending debris onto pedestrians.
- Liability for tenants & customers: Operating from an unauthorised unit can void insurance, invite sealing, and expose occupants to legal and financial risk.
What must happen now
- MCD (Building Dept., West Zone): Inspect and seal the unauthorised unit; prosecute for deviation/encroachment.
- Delhi Fire Service (DFS): Take note for NOC action—no renewal until egress is restored and electrical risks are removed.
- DDA (Building Section): Enforce compliance with the sanctioned plan; direct restoration of the open arcade.
- Banks & brokers: Do not lease or operate from this unit. Ask for sanctioned drawings, completion/occupancy certificate, and fire clearances—if they’re missing, walk away.
- Residents & visitors: Report sighted hazards via MCD 311, DFS and DDA grievance portals; share this post to discourage illegal re-letting.
Quick facts for readers
- Nickname: “Kotak ATM” shop (earlier housed a bank ATM; now being refitted).
- Exact issue: Ground-floor shop illegally constructed in the arcade/column bay, not present in original plans.
- Current status: Renovation indicates it may be rented again unless authorities intervene.