LG orders DDA and MCD to conduct safety audit of parks

…and cleanliness. Rakesh Narula, a resident of East of Kailash, said the problem was not limited to Aastha Kunj Park where a minor was gang-raped Monday, with several parks in the area also suffering from poor upkeep. “ Two parks opposite W Block, Greater Kailash-I, used to be well maintained and properly lit when they were looked after by DLF. Now they are in a state of disrepair. Likewise, at Central Park, located in the middle of Kailash Colony and inside the main market, most of the lights are out of order. Even where they work, large branches block the light. The trees have not been pruned for years. Several representations have been made to the councillor, MLA and the corporation, but there has been no response ,” Narula said. Residents said parks in MCD colonies face similar problems, with frequent instances of people consuming alcohol and playing cards despite resistance from locals. “We can only approach agencies for help…

…but there has been no response,” Narula said. Residents said parks in MCD colonies face similar problems, with frequent instances of people consuming alcohol and playing cards despite resistance from locals. “ We can only approach agencies for help rather than getting into a fight with the elements every day. Ideally, there should be a single-point agency comprising representatives from all departments to address issues plaguing the parks, including encroachment, misuse, law and order and horticulture work ,” said Karan Agarwal, another East of Kailash resident. LG said Delhi Police was asked to strengthen beat patrolling, including deployment of Pink Police personnel around park premises. “MCD and DDA were told to…

…will be strengthened to report suspicious or illegal activities for prompt action,” DDA added. MCD commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar said a majority of the around 15,000 parks under its jurisdiction are small in size. “ It has been decided that around 1,000 parks measuring more than one acre each will be targeted for auditing and assessing safety measures. Adequate lighting will be ensured and coordination will be done with residents and RWAs to improve safety. Wherever required, coordination with local police and Delhi govt will also be undertaken ,” said Khirwar.…