Delhi plans to take over roads angers MCD
By IANSWednesday, October 20, 2010
NEW DELHI - The Delhi government’s move to take over the Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s (MCD) roads in outer Delhi has so angered the civic body that its councillors have demanded dismissal of Public Works Minister Raj Kumar Chauhan for raising the issue.
Terming the MCD-controlled roads in outer Delhi “pathetic” and “mismanaged”, Chauhan told IANS that a proposal to take over the roads was being considered by the government.
Reacting to it, standing committee chairman Yogender Chandolia said Chauhan should either withdraw his statement or be dismissed for speaking “against political ethics”. He also said the statement was contrary to what the constitution prescribes.
However, Chauhan clarified the roads were damaged as unprecedented rains lashed the city this year.
Quoting provisions of the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, Chandolia said maintenance of all the public streets, including pavements, was under the control of the municipal commissioner.
He also said it is the function of the corporation to construct, maintain, improve and develop the roads and bridges besides providing street lights.
The committee chairman said that a provision of Rs.4 crore and Rs.95 crore has been made for maintenance of roads in the rural areas under the MCD budget.
