As India's capital prepares to host the Commonwealth games a year from now, authorities there are cracking down on certain kinds of street life in an effort to clean and bring some order to the city.
Last month, mobile courts began prowling various neighbourhoods as part of a campaign to stamp out activities such as begging. The new courts have prosecuted 38 cases so far, many targeting New Delhi's 60,000 beggars.
The city is bracing for the wave of public figures, athletes and tourists that comes with hosting a large sporting event such as the Commonwealth Games.
Government officials are hoping the event will help transform New Delhi's image into that of a world-class metropolis. A lot of work needs to be done, however, in order to make the games successful.
Last month, India's interior minister, P Chidambaram, said that New Delhi residents must "change their mindset." He referred to the civic campaign that preceded Germany's hosting of the 2006 World Cup, and cited China's preparations to host the Olympic Games last year.
Chidambaram said the city's motorists in particular need to improve their driving. New Delhi roads are often filled with vehicles of all shapes and sizes weaving and honking sporadically.
The authorities have torn down sprawling slums. Food stalls and illegal rickshaws are being targeted by the police and courts. So are unsavoury behaviours such as spitting. Convicted beggars can face a warning, a fine, or jail.
Skeptics worry that efforts to revitalize the city won't be completed in time. Construction projects on the airport, sporting venues, roadways and the transit system are reportedly falling behind.
And there are rumours that executives with the Games are worried, and are seeking help from India's prime minister.
However, New Delhi's Commonwealth Games committee says everything will be ready when the time comes.
With a report from CTV's Janis Mackey Frayer
