Noida: Parts of a green belt, overgrown with bushes, have merged into open green spaces in Block C of Sector 43. Moreover, the absence of streetlights and a boundary wall has made it a hub for anti-social elements. Residents said the neglect has affected the neighbourhood’s appearance and there have been several incidents of snatchings lately.The sector’s RWA president, Deepak Kumar, said, “Due to a lack of maintenance, the area has become overgrown with dense vegetation. The absence of a boundary wall and the lack of proper lighting have turned it into a hub for anti-social elements and individuals consuming alcohol. As evening falls, security in the area is compromised. Incidents such as thefts have created an environment of fear, particularly among women and the elderly.”
Cases of snatching have also risen in the area, many said
Despite repeated complaints to the Noida Authority by both residents and the RWA, there has been no redress. Sharma emphasised that the lack of action is unacceptable, given that community safety should be a top priority for local authorities.The RWA has urged the Authority to clean the green belt immediately, provide adequate lighting and construct a sturdy boundary wall. Sharma said the measures were essential to ensure a fear-free environment for residents and prevent untoward incidents. “Moreover, we request increased regular patrolling by local law enforcement to safeguard our community and deter any potential criminal activity,” he said.The RWA general secretary, Yogesh Kumar, said the problem is not restricted to the green belt in Block C. The entire neighbourhood is in dire need of upkeep. “Overgrown bushes and dense thickets across the sector have become a concern, with thefts, illicit activities and the movement of suspicious individuals reported on a daily basis over the past 18 months,” he said.Authority officials assured redress soon.
