Rakh Bagh in Ludhiana became commercial space, NGT orders action

The National Green Court (NGT) ordered the Municipal Corporation Commissioner to investigate and take action within two months against illegal trading, installation of a private statue and high travel fees by a private company at Rakh Bagh Ludhiana, following a petition filed by two city residents.

The park was handed over to the private company for its maintenance as part of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) by the Municipal Corporation, but the applicants alleged that it was subcontracted to a third party for unauthorized purposes.

They alleged that the firm had violated the terms of the agreement, but the Municipal Corporation had not taken any action to date.

One of the applicants, Amandeep Singh Bains, alleged that the attractions were being operated through a third party, and several restaurants and commercial shops had sprung up in Rakh Bagh, resulting in the loss of the park's main motive of providing a healthy environment.

The other applicant, Yogesh Maini, claimed that the private company had installed a statue of his family member in the public park, which goes against the Supreme Court's instructions to preserve open space for parks and playgrounds.

The NGT has instructed the Municipal Corporation to verify the facts and take corrective measures in accordance with the law, and present a report of the measures adopted within two months.

Municipal Corporation officials denied any commercialization of Rakh Bagh and stated that the swings are an integral part of the park and serve as recreational activities for children. They also ensured to investigate and take corrective action if discrepancies are found.

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