Vasant Kunj was once supposed to be one of the best high-end colonies developed by DDA. Many government employees had opted for these flats to lead a comfortable retired life due to its location, greenery and planning. But greed of land mafia/ few RWAs, non-implementation of provisions of MPD by DDA, political leaders’ deliberate attempt to adjust illegality by amending MPD, has made this beautifully designed colony into a living hell especially for commuters.
Increase in traffic because of haphazard / unplanned expansion, allowing the sale of small plots by converting big farmland into kothis, allowing illegal colonies on Ridge / forest land and not being able to recover the right of way (road width) from the encroachers are some of the reasons why the area today is among the 13 hotspots of high pollution levels in Delhi. Neither the commonwealth games nor the recent G20 submit could make any impact on these encroachments.
Around 2006, PWD built 52 -high end flats for Delhi government officials at D2. All of us in the area were very positive to get a relief from all of our problems considering government’s most effective persons were moving in our neighborhood. But over the years we didn’t find any change. Most of us would agree that instead of improvements around D2 worst is happening. Why?
They have govt. funded cars with drivers, no clue on ground realities as they interact least with public around.
They have all govt. funded resources at their doorsteps and very comfortable within boundaries for their families.
They are emotionally attached to service providers around and extend their moral support in case they are approached for relief, but rarely interact with immediate neighborhood communities like RWAs, religious gatherings or any other public functions organized by local communities except for official ones.
Most of Delhi officials are young, dynamic and highly educated these days, they have school -going children and to safeguard their future, probably officials avoid taking controversial but right decisions to avoid backlash from their political bosses.
– Providing separate accommodations could be seen as a privilege that is not available to the general public. This may create a perception of inequality and favoritism.
– Government resources are often limited. Allocating separate housing for officials may divert funds from other critical social services or public infrastructure.
– Living among the general population can foster better understanding and empathy for the issues faced by citizens, enabling officials to make more informed decisions.
– When officials live among the public, it can increase accountability and transparency in their actions and decisions, as they are directly engaged with the community they serve.
The decision regarding accommodations for government officials should consider factors like security, equity, resource management, and the need for officials to remain connected to the communities they serve. Balancing these perspectives is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring efficient governance.
