Illegal Outlets Thrive at Sec 29 Hub, Enforcement Remains Lax

Despite multiple occupation certificates (OCs) being revoked over the past two years, bars, restaurants, and retail outlets continue to operate openly from shop-cum-office (SCO) properties in Gurugram's Sector-29—exposing lapses in enforcement by the excise department, fire safety authorities, and Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB).

- Leena Dhankhar

GURUGRAM:

Documents accessed by HT show that OCs for SCO Nos. 27, 28, and 53 were cancelled between 2021 and 2025 for a range of violations, including unauthorised basement use, illegal fourth-floor construction, and zoning infractions. In a January 18, 2022 order against SCO No. 28, Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) even directed disconnection of water and sewer lines and initiated proceedings to reclaim the premises.

Yet, at least five bars continue to operate from these properties—some even from basements, which HSVP norms allow solely for storage. A major fast-food chain and other restaurants have also set up shop in spaces designated strictly for hotel use.

"The building codes clearly specify that basements in HSVP markets are to be used for storage only. Running bars or spas in these spaces is not just a violation—it's a safety risk," said a senior HSVP official, speaking on condition of anonymity.