Kanwar Yatra 2026: MCD orders closure of unauthorised meat shops near camps

MCD Directs Shutting Down Unauthorized Meat Establishments Ahead of Kanwar Yatra 2026

Bharatmorningnews.com – The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has issued strict instructions to close down all unlicensed and illegal meat vendors situated along Kanwar pilgrimage routes and in proximity to the city’s 308 designated camps. This directive was communicated by senior municipal authorities in preparation for the upcoming religious procession.

Meeting and Official Memorandum Details

The enforcement order follows a comprehensive review meeting concerning Kanwar Yatra arrangements, which was presided over by Delhi Cabinet minister Kapil Mishra on July 25. According to an office memorandum dated June 27 and released by MCD additional commissioner Arun Mishra, the following provisions were established:

During the said meeting, it was deliberated that Karwar Camps shall primarily be established at 308 original sites besides some new sites, as the case may be, and will become fully operational from July 30, the first day of Shravana month till Shivratri on August 11.

Cleanup and Sanitation Measures

Beyond the meat shop closures, the municipal corporation has outlined several additional actions. These include eliminating encroachments, conducting thorough cleaning operations, and removing vegetation from all camp locations. Furthermore, sanitation teams and equipment will operate continuously across three shifts at the zonal level.

Removal of encroachments, ensuring deep cleaning/scavenging including removal of vegetation etc. at all Camp sites and regular scavenging work round-the-clock by deployíng sanitation manpower and machinery in three shifts at zonal level

Legal Framework and Enforcement

The regulatory authority for meat commerce in Delhi stems from the Delhi Municipal Corporation (DMC) Act, 1957. Specifically, Sections 415 through 418 oversee markets, slaughterhouses, and related commercial activities. The MCD’s veterinary services department is responsible for implementing these regulations.

Establishments holding valid licenses must adhere to multiple stipulations regarding meat presentation, proximity to sacred buildings, glass specifications, and hygiene infrastructure. Despite these requirements, numerous vendors continue operating in contravention of various rules, and the corporation has faced criticism in the past for allegedly selective enforcement against shops.

Additional Health Precautions

The MCD has mandated regular fumigation procedures at every camp site both prior to and throughout the Kanwar Yatra period. Preventive strategies targeting waterborne and vector-transmitted illnesses have also been implemented. Mobile medical units will be positioned at major pandals to provide immediate healthcare support.

The 2026 Kanwar Yatra is scheduled to commence on July 30 and conclude on August 11, spanning the entire Shravana month until Shivratri.