Delhi parks are set for tighter evening security after the Delhi Development Authority completed safety audits at around 300 sites and began upgrading lighting, patrols, surveillance and access controls across its network. The exercise was initiated on the directions of Lieutenant Governor Tarunjit Singh Sandhu, according to the DDA report published by Jagran – New Delhi.
The DDA has set a target of completing audits of the remaining 375 parks this week. The inspections cover the deployment of security guards, night patrols, CCTV systems, lighting, entry and exit points, fencing and boundary walls.
Additional guards have been deployed on night shifts at parks where the audits identified a requirement. The authority has also begun motorcycle patrols equipped with torches and security equipment. Senior officials are conducting surprise inspections at night, while dark spots are being identified for additional lighting.
The lighting work includes trimming overgrown trees and plants around lamp posts to improve visibility on park paths. The DDA is also working to repair gaps in fencing and boundary walls and to strengthen CCTV coverage and entry and exit arrangements.
The measures are intended to address safety concerns in parks after evening hours without changing their designated operating times. The DDA has clarified that parks will continue to be available to all visitors during their prescribed timings and that entry will not be restricted on the basis of gender or any other category.
The authority is coordinating with the Delhi Police as part of the security arrangements. It has instructed park guards to remain in contact with the relevant beat officer and to report suspicious activity immediately. Information boards are also being used to advise visitors to use the main illuminated paths after sunset.
The DDA said the arrangements are being planned with the safety of women, children, older people and persons with disabilities in mind. The remaining park audits and the implementation of recommendations identified during those inspections are the next stated steps in the exercise.
