Monday, December 6, 2010

Sector 15 residents forced to walk on roads

Sector 15 residents forced to walk on roads
The footpath in Sector 15 always remains occupied with construction material, open wires and feeder boxes. Ward officer says that since this is a provision given by NMMC general body, it cannot be challenged.
A resident who does not want to be identified says, "We are living in filthy and risky conditions. Since over two months construction material is kept on the footpath here, compelling pedestrians to risk their lives by walking on road".
Pointing fingers at MSEDC negligence he says, "At the entrance of B 2/17, the feeder box is kept open by MSEDC workers. This is a major risk for little children who love playing on piles of construction materials. The construction materials have been piled up after a gap of 100 metres".
He further adds, "On the corner of B 2/8, a huge electrical cable joined with insulation tape has been left open. Children who play in the vicinity may not be aware of the grave danger and in any moment of playfulness try to remove the tape and get electrocuted".
Local corporator Vikram Shinde informs, "As various renovation and redevelopment works are initiated by residents, construction material is always seen on footpaths. As one work ends, another starts. Prior to Ganeshotsav I had organized removal of debris and 15 truckloads of debris were removed from the ward". Responding to electrical cables, he informs, "The work of laying new cable lines is being undertaken in the area. To ensure that in case of any short circuit, there must not be any shortage of cable, extra cables have been piled up there for the time being. In the next 15 days these will be put underground". Regarding construction materials, NMMC Vashi Ward Officer Ashok Madhavi says "Our sanitary inspector regularly conducts checks to ensure that no construction material is illegally kept on footpath. If anyone is found guilty, he/she has to pay Rs 400 per square metre as penalty. However, one is allowed to use the footpath for keeping the material for 15 days by paying Rs 200 per square metre as legal charges. The permission can be extended for 15 days till the work is completed. This provision has been made by the general body and hence cannot be challenged". He adds, "This service is provided on public demand and hence pedestrians will have to bear". Responding on the open feeder boxes Madhavi informs, "Prior to Ganeshotsav we had asked MSEDC to ensure that all the feeder boxes are closed to provide safety to residents but in vain".
Jaspal Singh Naol

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