The MCD's planned extensive sealing action against commercial establishments not paying conversion charges was deferred in some parts of the city today as traders lined up in large numbers to submit their dues.

However, in other areas, the drive is expected to start from tomorrow, officials said.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has been undertaking sealing action against shops and commercial establishments in the capital after their owners failed to deposit the necessary conversion charges.

Officials had earlier said the drive was to gain momentum after Holi.

Traders from various areas, particularly those falling under Central Zone, lined up in large numbers before the Building Department offices today to pay their dues.

Officials said the drive has been deferred as the civic body wants to give the defaulters an opportunity to clear their dues.

"Our focus is on collecting the conversion charges rather than sealing properties. So we are giving the traders a chance to clear their dues. If they do not do so, of course, necessary action will be taken," an official said.

In some other parts like South Zone and Rohini Zone, however, the drive may start from tomorrow.

"Today, we could not launch the drive as adequate number of police personnel was not available. We will requisition security personnel and sealing will start from tomorrow," an official from South Zone said.

The conversion charge is necessary for shops in stretches notified as commercial or mixed land use under Master Plan for Delhi-2021.

Earlier on January 24, the MCD had also issued a public notice warning action against "misusers" of residential properties if they do not deposit the necessary conversion charges within 15 days.