New Delhi: Come July 1 and eight magistrates' courts here will begin functioning for two hours every evening in an attempt to clear the staggering 897,373 cases that have piled up.

The sittings will be held in all the four district courts at Tis Hazari, Patiala House, Rohini and Karkardooma and officials hope this will lead to the quick disposal of around 300,000 cases in the initial phase.

"Initially two metropolitan magistrates (in each of the courts) will hear cases in the evening but the number will soon be increased. The system will work on a rotational basis," said an official involved with the project.

The courts will operate from 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. on all working days.

"The evening courts not only mean additional working hours but introduce a system which enables the common man to seek justice without wasting his working hours during the day," the official pointed out.

"There will be no added burden on the exchequer given that the existing infrastructure will be utilised," he added.