Delhi: MCD rolls out safety measures for parks after LG directives
Following LG directives, the MCD rolls out enhanced security, better lighting, and stricter monitoring to ensure safer Delhi parks for all.
In a major move to enhance public security, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has launched a comprehensive set of safety measures across its parks. This initiative follows specific directives from the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi aimed at making public green spaces more secure and accessible for all citizens.
The civic body has introduced a multi-layered approach that includes upgraded security arrangements, improved lighting, and more rigorous monitoring to ensure that Delhi's parks remain safe havens for visitors.
Enhanced Security and Infrastructure Upgrades
To create a safer environment, particularly for women and children, the MCD has conducted extensive reviews of existing security protocols in consultation with law enforcement agencies. The following infrastructure improvements are being prioritized:
- Boundary Security: Ensuring proper fencing and boundary walls are intact, including the sealing of any gaps in existing fences.
- Improved Visibility: Enhancing lighting arrangements to eliminate dark spots and ensuring that walkways, seating areas, and play zones are well-lit.
- Vegetation Management: Regular pruning of trees and vegetation is being carried out to remove hidden areas that could potentially be used for illicit activities.
- Access Control: Strengthening control at park entrances and exits and issuing clear advisories regarding official park timings.
Furthermore, the MCD has directed zonal officials to act immediately on physical hazards, such as broken benches, damaged children's play equipment, malfunctioning open-gym apparatus, and exposed electrical wiring.
A Strict Monitoring Mechanism for Accountability
To ensure these measures are not just temporary, the MCD has established a structured hierarchy of responsibility within the Horticulture Department to maintain accountability:
- Daily Tasks: Gardeners are responsible for daily cleaning and maintenance, while supervisors must conduct daily inspections.
- Weekly Reviews: Horticulture Department officials will perform regular monitoring and hold weekly reviews of park conditions.
- Fortnightly Inspections: Senior officials will conduct inspections every two weeks to address critical safety concerns and high-level issues.
Community Involvement and Public Safety
The MCD is actively seeking the cooperation of Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and regular park users. Citizens are encouraged to use well-lit areas and to immediately report any suspicious activities or the presence of anti-social elements to the police or the police helpline.
"The MCD is committed to further strengthening the safety and security of all visitors, particularly women, children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities," the civic body stated in its official release.
The Corporation has also clarified that there will be no discrimination regarding entry into parks based on gender or any other factor. To further refine these efforts, the MCD has invited suggestions from the general public to help improve security arrangements in gardens and parks under its jurisdiction.