Mukherjee Nagar in Delhi, once a bustling hub for UPSC coaching, is now facing an uncertain future. Renowned for attracting thousands of civil services aspirants from across the country, this area is home to numerous coaching institutes, almost one on every street. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over its prominence, threatening its position as a premier destination for UPSC preparation.
Triggering Incident and Government Crackdown
The turning point came on July 27, 2024, when a tragic incident at Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajinder Nagar, another popular coaching area, resulted in the deaths of three civil services aspirants. Floodwaters hindered rescue operations, despite the prompt response from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and fire brigade. This tragedy underscored the inadequate safety measures at many coaching centers, prompting the Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD) to crack down on institutes operating in unsafe conditions, particularly those located in basements.
The Exodus Begins
In the wake of the MCD’s stringent enforcement of fire and safety norms, several coaching institutes in Mukherjee Nagar have started considering relocation. Notably, Drishti IAS, one of the most prominent coaching centers, has already announced its move from Mukherjee Nagar to Noida. This relocation is a significant blow to the area, which has long relied on the presence of such institutes to attract students and sustain its local economy.
Reports indicate that Drishti IAS is not alone in this decision. Many other coaching institutes are also exploring options to move to Noida or other areas like Karol Bagh and Wazirabad. The primary reasons cited include deteriorating infrastructure, lack of improvements in West Delhi, and the inability of many buildings in Mukherjee Nagar to meet the required fire and safety norms.
Growing Concerns Among Stakeholders
The potential mass exodus of coaching centers is causing anxiety among various stakeholders, including coaching institute owners, small business owners, landlords, and students. Mukherjee Nagar’s economy heavily depends on the influx of students who not only attend coaching classes but also rent accommodation, dine at local eateries, and shop in the area. The departure of major coaching centers threatens to leave the area economically strained and potentially deserted.
With over 100 coaching institutes in Mukherjee Nagar reportedly failing to meet the necessary criteria for fire and safety NOC, the situation is increasingly precarious. The recent closures of several coaching classes following the Rajinder Nagar incident have only added to the fears that Mukherjee Nagar may no longer be a viable hub for UPSC preparation.
The Future of Mukherjee Nagar
As the situation unfolds, the future of Mukherjee Nagar hangs in the balance. If the trend of relocation continues, the area could lose its status as a key destination for civil services aspirants. The shift of major institutes like Drishti IAS to areas with better infrastructure and compliance with safety regulations, such as Noida, may set a precedent that others will follow, leaving Mukherjee Nagar struggling to maintain its relevance in the competitive landscape of UPSC coaching.
In conclusion, Mukherjee Nagar is at a crossroads. The combination of recent safety concerns, inadequate infrastructure, and increased regulatory scrutiny is driving a potential exodus of coaching institutes from the area. This shift could lead to a dramatic change in the landscape of UPSC preparation in Delhi, with significant implications for all those connected to this once-thriving educational hub.
