Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has given his nod to 29 additional shops and commercial establishments in the national capital to operate round-the-clock. This move aims to boost employment opportunities and strengthen Delhi’s economy, according to a statement from the chief minister’s office. Additionally, it is expected to invigorate the city’s nightlife.
These newly approved establishments belong to various categories, including shops, restaurants, retail trade, and business establishments. The proposal will now be forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi for further processing.
The decision to allow 24-hour operations came after 35 individuals expressed their interest in applying for this opportunity under the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act of 1954. Among these applicants, three were incomplete and contained inaccurate information, resulting in their suspension. Furthermore, three duplicate applications were identified, and one of them was subsequently canceled after thorough investigation.
Previously, Chief Minister Kejriwal had already granted permission to 552 shops to operate 24 hours, with 155 approvals made in June of the current year alone. In contrast, over the past 68 years, from 1954 to 2022, only 269 shops and establishments had been granted similar permission.
The newly approved establishments fall into four categories: shop category, commercial category, restaurant category, and retail trade category. Various locations, such as community centers, commercial complexes, metro stations, and marketplaces, will now be allowed to operate 24/7, promoting greater convenience for citizens and visitors alike. Commercial establishments in diplomatic enclaves, hotels and restaurants near the IGI Airport, as well as logistics and warehousing facilities, will also benefit from the round-the-clock operation. Moreover, certain food product shops in specific areas will be open 24 hours to cater to consumer demands.
(With PTI inputs)
