The Pioneer 31.08.2010
Parvaiz Sultan | New Delhi
In yet another glaring example of shortsightedness and poor management of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, nearly 90 per cent artificial waterfalls constructed by the civic body in various park across the city have been lying defunct or damaged.
It might be noted the MCD has spent around `15 crores over the construction of these imitated water bodies to give its parks and gardens an aesthetic look. With an aim to beautify the city landscape, the corporation has decided to decorate them by planting flowers plant in view of the Commonwealth Games.
During the last few years, the MCD constructed 818 waterfalls in 12 zones in the Capital with a cost of `14. 95 crores. But in the absence of proper maintenance, supervision and stiff opposition from the people living in the neighbourhood, these waterfalls became waterless and demolished.
At present, only 89 waterfalls are in working and rest of them are in crumbling state. In three zones — City, Narela and Najafgarh — no waterfall is functional. Following the unsuccessful attempt and severe criticism, the MCD has also resolved not to construct such water bodies in Delhi in future.
“Only 89 waterfalls are in working position. Remaining waterfalls will be given pleasant look after ornamenting them with flowers plants. This will be done five zones especially, where CWG relating activities are going on," a senior official of the Horticulture Department of MCD said. He further said the waterfall could not sustain due to the inadequate water supply and opposition from residents of nearby areas. "As the city has been facing short water supply, these units would not get enough water, consequently they became dry. And in most of the areas, Residents Welfare Associations resisted the continuation of waterfall fearing the spread of malaria, dengue or diseases caused by mosquito bite," he also said.
Another official of the Corporation said in beginning on the recommendation of area councilors, these waterfalls was constructed with much fanfare but after poor response, they were neglected. "Under the pressure from local people, these councilors later proposed demolition of these units," said he. He also admitted the state of waterfalls deteriorated due to lack of sufficient manpower.
