In view of the preparations for the Commonwealth Games, the Delhi Government has decided to completely ban cutting of roads by various agencies from August 20, Delhi Urban Development Minister A.K. Walia said on Wednesday.
Expressing deep concern over the ongoing road cutting in Delhi, the Minister said it has been found that in many cases road cutting was being done even after completion of other civic works in the area. This was giving a shabby look to the already spruced up places as well.
Dr. Walia said he had directed his department to issue strict instructions that cutting of roads would not be allowed for any purpose after August 20. Stating that such works of road cutting were also spoiling and
damaging the footpaths and roads, the Minister said it has been observed that most of these road cutting works are being done by the private power distribution companies, MTNL and ECIL for completing
their works.
Acknowledging that these companies were rushing to meet their August 16 deadline for completion of various works, Dr. Walia said it should not, however, be forgotten that rampant road cutting will not only
damage the various structures already built but also harm the image of the city.
The need of the hour, he said, was to have cleanliness all around and the infrastructure in perfect shape as a large number of tourists and visitors would soon be arriving in Delhi for the Commonwealth Games.
Dr. Walia also instructed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Delhi Police to strictly enforce the provisions of the Delhi Defacement Act which envisages stringent action including hefty fine and imprisonment. He also directed the enforcement agencies to ensure that no posters, banner and wall writing were visible in the Capital city.
The Minister also appealed to the citizens not to stick posters and banners during the forthcoming festival season.
