In a bid to ensure that Delhi’s infrastructure is monsoon-ready, PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma on Tuesday directed the District Magistrates (DM) to take measures that public pathways are freed from encroachments.
He gave these directions in a video conference meeting with all DMs of the capital. The meeting was held from the Secretariat, where senior PWD officials were also present. The focus of the meeting was on freeing PWD roads and footpaths from illegal encroachments and strengthening the ongoing cleanliness drive under the special monsoon preparedness campaign.
Minister clearly stated that while these roads fall under the purview of the Public Works Department, this mission requires seamless coordination among all agencies — be it the district administration, Delhi Police, MCD, or other civic bodies.
He directed all DMs to conduct operations with STF (Special Task Force), DTF (District Task Force), to ensure that public spaces are cleared without delay,” the Minister emphasised. A follow-up review has been scheduled for next week to assess the implementation status of today’s directives.
The Minister expressed serious concern over the rising complaints from citizens regarding illegal parking, street-side encroachments, and unauthorised kiosks on footpaths and roads under PWD jurisdiction. He reiterated that such encroachments not only block free pedestrian movement but also hinder emergency response, sanitation, and drainage efforts during rains.
“Encroachments on public property are not only illegal, they are inhuman - especially during the monsoon when every blocked drain and every narrowed road can become a disaster zone,” said Parvesh Sahib Singh.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the Minister reminded all present that the monsoon is fast approaching, and any laxity at this stage could lead to waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and health hazards for citizens. He said that coordination meetings will be held every week at the Secretariat level to track real-time progress.
“All officers-PWD, MCD, Delhi Police, and district teams-must act not as separate departments, but as one mission force. Delhi’s public spaces are for its citizens. Let’s reclaim them from disorder and neglect,” the Minister concluded.
The meeting ended with an appeal to citizens to cooperate during the drive and support the teams working on the ground.