Lieutenant-governor Najeeb Jung has asked the Delhi government to file a report over the construction of “mohalla clinics” on pavements and other public properties in the national capital.

NDMC commissioner P.K. Gupta informed the civic body’s standing committee on Wednesday that Mr Jung has asked Delhi government’s PWD to file a report on the issue. “We have informed the L-G that some mohalla clinics are extending till pavements and encroaching the public space. We have also informed Delhi’s chief secretary and PWD secretary. The L-G has sought a report from the PWD over the issue,” said Mr Gupta.

Despite demands for strict against the mohalla clinics by the standing committee members, Mr Gupta told them it cannot be done immediately as it would bring adverse publicity. However, zonal officers have been directed to ensure that no further or new construction takes place. “No encroachment will be allowed on public’s right of way and officers are given instruction for ensuring its compliance,” added Mr Gupta.

Members of the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress pointed that even the permanent structure coming for these clinics were built without approval. Last week, the committee had directed that the engineering department must ensure that no building was constructed without the proper approval of building plan by the competent authority. A senior official informed the committee that notices have been served to the PWD and other agencies for removal of these illegally-erected structures.

“Our departments has already issued notices to the PWD to remove these structures as it is an encroachment on public space. Structures being built to open mohalla clinics on footpaths also pose a danger to pedestrian safety,” said Parvesh Wahi, chairman of the standing committee.

Leader of the Opposition Mukesh Goel also said that footpaths should be made free from any encroachment. “We must act against these illegal structures built in the name of mohalla clinics,” added Mr Goel.