New Delhi, Oct 24 Following the gangrape incident at Aastha Kunj park, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has taken several security measures, including security guards, patrolling bikes, and additional lights, officials said on Saturday.
The expansive park in southeast Delhi, surrounded by three major temples, came under scrutiny last month following the alleged gangrape of a 17-year-old girl by men posing as police personnel, with security gaps including broken boundary walls, unmanned gates and dimly-lit stretches coming into focus.
“Two siren-equipped motorcycles along with torches and essential safety equipment have been deployed for night patrolling. Surprise night inspections are also conducted by the site in-charge, security supervisor and departmental staff to verify security arrangements and guard deployment,” the DDA said.
Given its extensive area of 142.41 acres and 29 gates, the park undertakes regular patrolling to ensure security coverage across the park, it added.
In terms of better lighting, all 340 existing lights in the park are functional, and 105 additional lights have been installed in accordance with recommendations of the Safety Audit Report.
“A joint inspection has been conducted with concerned electrical officials, and a proposal for installation of high-mast lights at suitable identified locations is under process,” the DDA said in a statement.
Officials mentioned that approximately 99 per cent of the park area falls within the Morphological Ridge, and accordingly additional illumination in densely vegetated areas is being planned judiciously to avoid disturbance to natural flora and fauna while ensuring adequate lighting along pathways and visitor-use areas.
“Four CCTV cameras were installed following the incident, and all four are presently functional. Damaged portions of the boundary wall have been repaired, and no breach or broken portion has been reported at present. All gates have been made lockable as recommended in the Safety Audit Report, and wicket gates are closed at 9 pm in accordance with existing arrangements,” the DDA said.
Security guards are marking attendance biometrically multiple times along with physical roll call, which is also being monitored through a dashboard, officials added.
(PTI News)
