During a survey by the Smart City Corporation authorities, it was found that seventy four places in the city are not safe for women and children. These areas witness rampant eve-teasing, mugging and such incidents, especially after sunset. The survey also mentions that it is mainly the lack of streetlights that emboldens the culprits, leading to such incidents. The survey was conducted to find out whether such incidents are a recurring feature and what needs to be done to make the city safer for women and children.
During the survey it was found that out of the seventy four location fifteen places are pitch dark at night and residents, especially women and children hesitate to go out even if they want to buy some essential items. The worst affected areas are AB Road, Sagar Tal Road, Pinto Park, Airport Road, Outer Circle Road and NH Road.
Speaking to the media persons, Mahip Tejaswi, the CEO of the Smart City Corporation said that the survey report and the measures to be taken to rectify the situation have been submitted to the Municipal Corporation for appropriate action. He added that the Corporation will soon take appropriate steps to rectify the situation. However it has been learnt that even after four months of submitting the report the Corporation authorities have failed to take any action till date.
Another problem that came out during the survey was the lack of police patrolling in these areas. This problem is not highlighted due to the very less number of cases that are registered due to social stigma and other hassles. The police need to improve the surveillance and response time in these areas.
There have also been many cases of children sustaining injuries due to the unsafe pavements, most of them in much depleted condition. The footpaths in many areas are also encroached by vendors and hence not safe for walking.