Unmaintained open sites in twin cities pose danger to public health
Hubballi: Open sites in twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad have emerged as a major concern for public health and safety. These neglected plots have turned into breeding grounds for mosquitoes and shelters for stray animals.
The unchecked growth of wild vegetation in these areas has led to the formation of mini-jungles within residential zones, posing difficulties for safe movement.
As per Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) records, there are 1,30,000 open sites in the city, many of which are contributing to hygiene and security issues in localities. The uncontrolled growth of vegetation in these sites has created mini-jungles within residential areas, making it difficult for residents to move safely around their neighbourhoods.
HDMC has begun taking measures to address this issue following the directive from district minister Santosh Lad. The civic body will now issue formal notices to site owners, requiring them to clear and maintain their properties. The owners will have a week to comply with these notices.
The HDMC has outlined a three-step enforcement plan. Firstly, owners who fail to respond to initial notices will face substantial monetary penalties.
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Secondly, if the sites remain uncleaned despite the fines, the authorities will undertake the cleaning work and charge the expenses to the owners. Finally, in cases of continued non-compliance, the municipal corporation has been authorised to acquire these plots.
Local residents have welcomed this initiative, as these neglected sites have been causing various problems, including increased incidents of dengue and Chikungunya.
The presence of stray animals has also led to safety concerns, particularly for children and elderly residents in these areas.
The municipal authorities have started mapping these sites and creating a database of property owners. They will also conduct regular inspections to ensure sustained compliance with cleanliness standards. This systematic approach aims to transform these problematic spaces into well-maintained areas that contribute positively to the urban landscape of the twin cities.
Ashok Kumar, a resident of Gokul Road, said the open plots have become overgrown with vegetation, transforming residential areas into breeding grounds for mosquitoes and providing refuge for stray dogs, cattle, and pigs. The authorities should initiate stern action against the owners of the land.
Rudresh Ghali, commissioner, HDMC, mentioned that district minister Santosh Lad recently gave instructions for strict action against open sites. He stated that they will begin proceedings against open sites and have instructed all zonal officials to gather information about open site owners and send them notices. He also indicated that if owners do not comply, they will conduct an extensive open sites cleaning operation, with the expenses being recovered from site owners during property tax collection.
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