Days after a filmmaker died due to electrocution from wires that were placed negligently on the railings in Sri Aurobindo Marg by owners of a shop, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has decided to launch a drive against encroachments of open spaces. The SDMC has decided to take strict action against the shopkeepers who encroach upon public spaces by keeping their wares out in the open.
According to SDMC municipal commissioner Manish Gupta, the Corporation will launch an intensive drive this week against all the traders as per the provisions of the DMC Act. “Shopkeepers put their goods outside their shops on public land. During the drive, SDMC staff will prosecute them or seize their goods,” he said.
On Monday, the SDMC decided to issue notices to property owners who have encroached upon the pavements in Green Park. “The process has already begun. A notice will be issued soon to the shopkeepers as per the DMC Act and an action will be initiated against the concerned officials, if found guilty,” Gupta added.
However, Gupta admitted that penalty has failed to act as deterrent as it ranges from mere Rs 5 to maximum Rs 1,000 for different violations under the DMC Act.
“These amounts were fixed way back in 1957 DMC Act was legislated. Few amendments were made the law, but no changes were made in the penalty for encroachment and it is still Rs 200,” he said. He felt to stop encroachments the law needs to be more effective and stringent. “Tougher amendment to the law is the Parliament’s prerogative and a strong political will is required,” said Gupta.
On Saturday, 33-year-old freelance filmmaker Anand Bhaskar Morle was electrocuted by live electric wires that were placed on a railing. The wires were connected to an air-conditioner belonging to a jewellery shop.
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