HC irked over use of parks, open spaces for commercial purposes

Ritika Singh Sisodiya | TNNLucknow: A Lucknow bench of Allahabad high court has expressed displeasure over the commercial use of parks, playgrounds and other open spaces in Uttar Pradesh and directed state govt and authorities concerned to reconsider the existing policy on it. The court observed that organisation of events at such green spaces adversely affects the environment, birds, and residents living nearby.The bench directed all divisional commissioners and district magistrates of UP to conduct surveys of parks, playgrounds and open spaces in their respective areas and include them in the official list to be prepared under the Uttar Pradesh Parks, Playgrounds and Open Spaces (Preservation and Regulation) Act, 1975. The authorities have also been asked to furnish complete details of such sites before the court.A bench of Justices Rajan Roy and Manjive Shukla passed the order on a PIL filed by Dharampal Yadav, seeking ban on commercial activities in parks, including Janeshwar Mishra Park in Lucknow.The court observed that under Section 6 of the 1975 Act, listed parks, playgrounds and open spaces could be used only for their designated purpose and any other activity would require prior approval from the competent authority.The court also took a strict view of noise pollution caused by weddings and other functions, directing state govt, police, municipal corporations and development authorities to ensure action against loud music and noise beyond permissible limits after 10pm. The bench said noise control was essential keeping in mind the convenience and well-being of residents, particularly children and the elderly.