Rajinder Da Dhaba, a renowned culinary landmark in Delhi’s Safdarjung Enclave, is now under the scrutiny of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) following complaints from local residents about noise and air pollution.
The Safdarjung Enclave AB Block Market Welfare Association has raised allegations against the eatery, accusing it of violating environmental norms through the illegal use of generators and open-air tandoors. The NGT has responded to these complaints by directing the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to conduct a thorough inspection of the area. The tribunal’s order, dated May 31, acknowledges the severity of the residents’ grievances, particularly concerning noise pollution. The complainants have highlighted that the eatery’s generator is operated without proper authorisation and that tandoors are being used unlawfully in open spaces, contributing to the pollution issues in the locality. In their order, the NGT stated, “In the complaint, which is enclosed along with the application, the issue of noise pollution has been raised.
The applicant has submitted that the generator has been kept by the project proponent unauthorisedly and tandoors are being used illegally in the open area.” The tribunal has mandated the DPCC to investigate these allegations thoroughly and take necessary action based on their findings, ensuring that all parties involved are given an opportunity to present their case if any violations are discovered. Rajinder Da Dhaba, however, has refuted all allegations, asserting that their operations are within legal bounds. In an official statement, a representative from the eatery clarified, “Our tandoors are gas-based, and the gensets are only used as a power back-up. To manage waste, each of our six shops has two dustbins each, from where the Municipal Corporation of Delhi collects waste every night. If waste is not picked up, then it may appear that garbage bags have piled up, but this is a rare occurrence.”
The iconic eatery, which has long been a favourite among Delhi’s residents and visitors, faces a critical evaluation of its environmental practices. The outcome of the DPCC’s inspection could have significant implications not only for Rajinder Da Dhaba but also for other businesses in the area regarding adherence to environmental regulations. This case underscores the increasing vigilance of environmental authorities and the active role of resident welfare associations in holding businesses accountable for their environmental impact. The NGT’s intervention highlights the importance of compliance with environmental norms to mitigate pollution and ensure a better quality of life for local communities. As the DPCC embarks on its investigation, the hospitality sector and environmental watchdogs alike will be keenly observing the proceedings. The findings and subsequent actions will likely set a precedent for how environmental regulations are enforced in densely populated urban areas, balancing commercial interests with the need to protect the environment and public health.
