The Sriniwaspuri ward, under the Central Zone of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), faces severe neglect and mismanagement in its parks, public toilets, and overall public safety. Despite repeated appeals by residents and the New Friends Co-Op. House Building Society Ltd., the condition of these public spaces remains deplorable.
Key Issues in Park Management in D Block, New Friends Colony
1. Lack of Adequate Lighting: Parks, including the prominent Sheesham Park, lack functional lighting, making them unsafe for residents. High-mast lights and other illumination systems remain inoperative despite continuous follow-ups with BSES,MCD and maintenance partners such as Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) .
2. Poor Maintenance: Parks suffer from an absence of regular cleaning and watering. Additionally, toilets located within the parks remain unhygienic and poorly maintained. Tree guards to protect saplings and trees are also missing, leaving the greenery vulnerable.
3. Absence of Beautification Efforts: The Horticulture Department (MCD) has not conducted any recent plantation drives or beautification initiatives in the parks. Persistent excuses of staff shortages , resources and lack of equipment reflect a lack of proactive planning and execution.
4. Resident-Driven Maintenance: In the absence of government support, Residents, New Friends Co-Op. House Building Society Ltd., and the VarikshaRopan Samiti have taken on the responsibility of maintaining some parks. While their contributions are admirable, the onus lies with the MCD’s Horticulture Department to fulfill these obligations.
Security Concerns in Sheesham Park ‘D’ Block New Friends Colony
Sheesham Park has become a hotspot for anti-social activities, including public drinking and loitering, posing serious safety concerns. Despite repeated requests, there has been no action from the Delhi Police or the MCD to station a chowkidar in the park. Regular patrolling and security measures remain absent, leaving residents vulnerable.
Lack of Accountability from Authorities
Despite raising these issues with the Central Zone MCD DC , no tangible improvements have been made. The Horticulture Department cites inadequate staff and resources as recurring excuses, reflecting inefficiency and lack of accountability. Residents deserve transparency regarding who oversees park maintenance and why these persistent issues remain unresolved.
Appeal for Immediate Action
Residents urgently request the following:
1. Operational Park Lighting: Immediate repair and activation of high-mast lighting systems to ensure safety.
2. Regular Maintenance: Cleaning, watering, and upkeep of parks and public toilets on a scheduled basis.
3. Beautification: New plantations, flower beds, and tree guards for improved aesthetics and ecological balance.
4. Security Measures: Strict patrolling by Delhi Police under the supervision of the Station Head Officer (SHO), with oversight from the DCP South East District. Additionally, a permanent chowkidar / staff should be stationed at Sheesham Park.
5. Resource Allocation: Adequate budget and staff deployment by the Horticulture Department for proper maintenance of parks and amenities.
The current state of parks, public toilets, and sanitation in Sriniwaspuri Ward reflects poorly on the MCD and its commitment to public welfare. Authorities must take immediate, decisive action to address these concerns and restore the quality of life for residents. Shirniwaspuri Ward deserves better, and it is time to prioritise the safety, greenery, and well-being of its citizens.
