Delhi is an ancient city, littered with constructions, past & present. Edifices made by Delhi’s varied rulers which are robust, unique, proud and often making very firm statements. Some of these are well maintained while others are in ruins. Residents and visitors alike often take them in their stride. Once in a while, some perplex ! Many find, well finished, quaint small structures, some Modern others Mughal like, even Colonial a bit intriguing. These complexes usually house on the ground floor washrooms and on floor(s) above, what appear to be luxurious halls with befitting sitting space. Most of these structures are locked from outside and entry seems to have been barred to one and all. What are these?
Well, many Delhites would remember the hectic but exciting 19th Commonwealth Games held in Delhi during Oct. 3 to 14. It was a proud moment for the city. There were several firsts; from swanky stadiums, innovative traffic management, magnificent bridges & flyovers, new & sparking games village and many such novelties. However, along with all these, the games were also beset with scams and controversies. One such controversy was regarding the Eight High end Cafe cum Toilet Blocks which had come up before the games in the City. Surprisingly these were never inaugurated nor used. They still remain unused and are by now in a pitiable condition. A mere glance at any of these complexes shows that they are exceptionally well made, had independent water & electric supplies, murals adorned the outer walls with high end finishing inside including marble and granite. At some point of time, they had been fitted with modern LED lighting and Split ACs. Of course the latter are long gone.
It intrigues many that such nice complexes have been lying unused and going to the dogs. After all, money had gone into construction and equipping these wonderful looking complexes. Then why not use them? It could easily become extremely popular amongst users. With mounting pressure on all civic amenities in the capital these could be a boon.They could also become torch bearers of the PM’s Swachhata Mission.
Well, there must be some cogent reason for not utilising them. Some say it’s due to some dispute between Private Parties and the Government. But a good 14 years plus have gone by. Surely the government through its sovereign and municipal powers can find a solution. It hurts public conscience to witness the slow death of these complexes.
NewsIP has always strived to bring many civic & social issues of common man to the forefront with a fervent hope that powers that be will take note and act.
NewsIP.in publishes informational content from public sources . Verify independently. Disputes under Delhi High Court jurisdiction.