SC order to remove commercial establishments around Taj Mahal threatens over 50,000 jobs

The Supreme Court’s order that bans commercial activities within 500 metre radius of Taj Mahal has put a question mark on the fate of hundreds of shops operating around the structure. The Agra Development Authority (ADA) has been directed to immediately ensure the halting of all such activities.

The order was passed after a group of shopkeepers filed a petition for being asked to move to another location. They said in their appeal that while they were told to shift, there were several other commercial activities still operating in the area. At least 500 outlets will suffer as a consequence of the decision, with around 50,000 people at risk of losing jobs.

The establishments are now planning to file a review petition in the apex court.

The body has reportedly already started surveying the properties. Charchit Gaur, Vice Chairman of ADA said, “We have begun the survey processing of the businesses and after the completion of the survey we will identify the businesses and act accordingly to the order of the Supreme Court.”

The area within 500 metres of the monument is a no-construction zone and vehicles are not allowed to ply in the area.(WION)