MCD’s Action After Coaching Centre Deaths: Sealing Basements, Demolishing Encroachments

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 30th July. In response to the recent tragedy at a coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar, where three IAS aspirants lost their lives due to flooding, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has launched a comprehensive three-pronged action. MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar outlined the measures taken during a press briefing on Monday.

1. Sealing of Illegal Basements:
The MCD has initiated a drive to seal basements of coaching institutes operating without proper safety measures. Kumar highlighted that the issue of illegally run coaching centres is widespread across the capital, and this sealing effort will extend to other areas as well.

2. Demolition of Encroachments:
Efforts have been intensified to remove encroachments on stormwater drains. Kumar stated that the encroachments, which had completely covered the drains, contributed to severe waterlogging and impeded de-silting operations. The anti-encroachment drive aims to recover and clear these vital drainage systems.

3. Action Against Maintenance Engineers:
The MCD has taken disciplinary action against officials responsible for managing waterlogging. The junior engineer from the Karol Bagh zone has been terminated, and the assistant engineer suspended. A show cause notice has been issued to the executive engineer for failing to address the waterlogging issue in a timely manner.

Kumar also expressed sorrow over the incident and emphasized the need for improved safety measures in coaching centres. He proposed establishing dedicated spaces for coaching institutes to operate legally and safely, addressing the growing demand for such facilities in Delhi.

This action follows the death of three IAS aspirants in the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, which was among several basements in the area affected by flooding. The police have arrested seven individuals in connection with the incident, and the MCD has sealed 20 basements in Old Rajinder Nagar and Mukherjee Nagar.

Kumar’s statements came ahead of an emergency meeting convened by Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi to review the situation and coordinate further actions.