Expressing concern over conversion of Dhanvantari Nagar Community Hall playground into a dumping station and its commercial use, Jittu Katare, Corporator of Maharana Pratap Ward has urged the Jabalpur Municipal Corporation to take strict action into the matter. Katare said there are already very few playgrounds left for children and the elderly. There is hardly any space for women to walk, and planting trees has become a significant challenge. Ecological crises arise because of irresponsible actions being taken like a private company is doing in Maharana Pratap Ward. Katare alleged that Dhanvantari Nagar Community Hall playground has been encroached upon by a private company. He said this is the same firm that has haphazardly dug up the entire city in the name of sewer work. The company have occupied the playground for the past ten years, using it to park their vehicles, machines, store pipes, sand, gravel and also allegedly axed trees for the same.

 

The Corporator alleged that it is unclear under whose permission the encroachment has occurred and who is favouring the company. Furthermore, he said the establishment of a sewer treatment plant in a residential area like Dhanvantari Nagar raises doubts. The future consequences of sewage from nearby colonies being processed in this plant remain uncertain, but it is a matter of great concern. He said the company is carrying out indiscriminate digging in areas like Bhukamp Colony, Chandan Colony, Ganga Nagar, Garha and Bada Pathar under the guise of sewer work, while responsible officials remain silent. No one inspects this reckless digging, no penalties are imposed on the company and no measures are taken to control the disorganized work, he questioned. The BJP Corporator emphasized that the company must be asked to plant trees to replace those they have cut down. He said despite multiple discussions with officials regarding these issues, no action has been taken. He said soon he along with area residents will bring the matter to the attention of senior authorities.