DLF Promenade, DLF Emporio, and Ambience Mall – the glittering jewels of South Delhi’s shopping scene – have long been the go-to destinations for Delhiites and tourists alike, especially during the festive season. From luxury brands to gourmet restaurants, these malls are the hub of the city’s retail and social life.
But this Diwali, the sparkle is under threat.
In an unprecedented turn of events, these premier malls in Vasant Kunj are on the verge of closure due to a severe water shortage. If the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) does not restore supply within the next two to three days, the malls may be forced to shut their doors, potentially affecting businesses worth crores and jeopardising thousands of jobs.
Toilets Closed, Restaurants Struggling, Shoppers In Distress
The water shortage has created chaos inside the malls. Toilets are clogged, 70% of restrooms remain closed, and restaurants are struggling to clean dishes or even provide drinking water. Shoppers navigating the festive crowds are finding the experience frustrating and inconvenient.
Arvind Kapoor, president of the Mall and Shopping Complex Association, highlighted the severity of the situation and spoke to News18: “We are not receiving water from the Jal Board, making it extremely difficult to operate the shopping complex and its three major malls. If the supply is not restored soon, all operations may come to a halt.”
He added that despite the area being developed in 2008, a consistent water supply has always been a challenge.
Years Of Negotiation, But No Relief
Vasant Kunj, an upscale neighbourhood developed under former Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit, has never had an official water connection. The malls had previously relied on private water tankers, but a recent government ban on tanker water has left the entire shopping hub in crisis mode.
“The area has always struggled with water issues. The Jal Board has been contacted multiple times, official emails have been sent, and discussions are ongoing. We hope the authorities take prompt action,” Kapoor added.
The water shortage is not limited to malls. Nearby luxury hotels and the headquarters of major companies, including Airtel, Maruti Suzuki, and ONGC, are also facing operational disruptions.
A Countdown To Diwali: Urgency At Its Peak
With Diwali just days away, the crisis comes at a particularly sensitive time for both businesses and consumers. The festive season, which usually draws thousands of shoppers, is now overshadowed by a looming operational shutdown.
As the Delhi Jal Board weighs its next steps, mall owners and shoppers alike are left in suspense. The coming days will determine whether South Delhi’s shopping paradise continues to shine this festive season or faces an unprecedented closure.
