Greenbelt turns dumping ground amid encroachments and neglect | Gurgaon News
Gurgaon: The green belt in Sector 4 has fallen into disrepair, with encroachments, garbage dumping and poor maintenance undermining its role as a green buffer and recreational space for residents.Residents said the stretch along Dhanwapur Road is the worst affected, with waste, cow dung, and debris scattered across the green belt. In several parts, makeshift structures and street vendors have occupied land meant for public use.“The green belt in our sector is in a neglected and encroached state. What was meant to be a public space has turned into a dumping ground,” said Manoj Bharadwaj, president of Sector 4 Urban Estate RWA.According to residents, a proposal to revamp the green belt was prepared around two years ago, including landscaping work and development of a jogging track. However, the plan never materialised. Bharadwaj said maintenance has been minimal since 2013-14, adding that the area earlier had plants, seasonal flowers and basic infrastructure.Others also flagged misuse of the space. “There is no maintenance. Cattle are tied in several places, garbage is dumped openly and construction debris is lying around,” said S S Singh Dahiya, a resident.The green belt stretch from Sector 9 chowk towards Dhanwapur and adjoining areas has been affected by prolonged neglect. Residents said repeated complaints have not resulted in action to clear encroachments or restore the space. They have now demanded a clean-up drive, removal of illegal occupation and revival of the earlier development plan.GMDA officials said action is underway. “We have conducted a site visit, and encroachments have reduced compared to earlier. Further action will be taken within the next 15-20 days after making a formal announcement,” an official said. Another official added that vulnerable stretches along the green belt have been identified and major work will be carried out during the monsoon season.
