Gurgaon: The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has issued a public advisory asking occupants of illegal paying guest (PG) accommodations, guesthouses, hotels, co-living facilities and commercial establishments operating from residential plots in the city to make alternative arrangements by June 30.The action primarily covers residential plots located in DLF Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. DTCP has advised all occupants, tenants and paying guests to independently verify the legal status of the properties they are residing in and, wherever necessary, arrange alternate accommodation before July to avoid inconvenience arising from sealing or restoration measures.The advisory, issued by the office of the district town planner (enforcement), comes amid an ongoing enforcement campaign targeting properties allegedly violating approved zoning regulations, building plans and development control norms.District town planner (enforcement) Amit Madholia told TOI the advisory became necessary after it was observed that many tenants, paying guests and occupants were unaware of notices issued to property owners and operators regarding impending enforcement action. The department noted that in several cases, landlords and operators failed to adequately inform residents about the legal status of the premises and the possibility of sealing action.The move is expected to impact hundreds of residents living in unauthorised commercial establishments across some of the city’s most densely populated residential neighbourhoods. Real estate experts say the action could trigger short-term disruption in the rental and PG accommodation market, particularly in areas that have witnessed rapid commercialisation over the past decade.“Occupants are advised not to wait until the date of enforcement action and should proactively coordinate with their landlords or operators regarding the status of the premises,” the advisory said. Authorities warned that sealing and restoration proceedings are underway against such establishments and that several premises have already been sealed.In DLF-1-5, a large number of residential properties have reportedly been converted into commercial establishments, including PG accommodations, guesthouses, hotels, hostels, co-living facilities and office spaces. According to the department, these activities are being carried out in violation of applicable planning regulations.The department clarified that the advisory has been issued in public interest to provide sufficient advance notice and reasonable opportunity to affected occupants to make alternate arrangements. It also stated that the govt would not be responsible for any loss, inconvenience or disruption caused due to sealing of premises found operating in violation of applicable laws, regulations and court directions.The enforcement drive forms part of the state’s broader effort to restore residential areas to their approved land-use norms and curb unauthorised commercial activities in the city.
