The Delhi Development Authority has tightened security at south Delhi’s Astha Kunj Park after a reported sexual assault involving a minor last month, adding 105 lights, activating four CCTV cameras, repairing damaged sections of the boundary wall and strengthening gate controls and night patrols.
The park, located near Kalkaji, covers 142.41 acres and has 29 gates. According to the DDA’s status report, all designated security guards have been deployed and regular patrolling is being carried out across the site. Two motorcycles equipped with sirens, torches and other security equipment are being used for night patrols.
Site in-charges, security supervisors and departmental staff are also conducting surprise inspections at night to check the deployment and functioning of security personnel. Guards are required to record attendance biometrically and through physical roll calls, with their presence monitored through a dashboard.
The DDA said all 340 existing lights in the park are currently operational. In addition, 105 new lights have been installed on the recommendations of a safety audit. A joint inspection has also been conducted with electricity officials, while a proposal to install high-mast lights at necessary locations is under process.
Lighting work is being planned around the park’s environmental characteristics. Nearly 99 per cent of the area is described as natural hill terrain, and the DDA said additional lighting in densely vegetated sections is being undertaken carefully to avoid damage to trees, plants and wildlife. At the same time, lighting is being strengthened along pathways and areas used by visitors.
Four CCTV cameras installed after the incident are operational, the report said. Damaged portions of the boundary wall have been repaired, and the DDA said there are currently no gaps or breaches in it. Locking arrangements have also been made at all gates in line with the safety audit’s recommendations.
Under the existing rules, smaller wicket gates are closed at 9 pm. The DDA said the condition of lights, CCTV cameras, gates and the boundary wall, along with guard deployment and performance, is being reviewed regularly. Corrective measures are to be taken wherever deficiencies are identified.
The security changes follow concerns raised by local residents about inadequate lighting and safety in the park after the reported incident. The case had also brought renewed attention to the safety of women and children in Delhi’s large public parks, particularly spaces with extensive vegetation, multiple access points and difficult-to-monitor terrain. The DDA’s report sets out the measures currently in place, while the proposed high-mast lighting remains under process.
