DDA Imposes Entry Fee in Dwarka Park, Residents Protest

New Delhi: Residents of Dwarka are protesting against the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) after it imposed an entry fee in a popular park in the area. The decision has sparked outrage among local citizens, who argue that public parks should remain free and accessible to everyone.

According to reports, DDA recently introduced a nominal entry fee for visitors at the park, citing maintenance and security reasons. However, many residents believe this move is unfair, especially for daily walkers, joggers, and senior citizens who frequent the park. Local organizations and environmental activists have also joined the protest, demanding that the authorities revoke the fee immediately.

Protesters gathered outside the park and raised slogans against the decision, urging officials to reconsider. “Parks are meant for the well-being of the public. Charging an entry fee will discourage people, especially those from lower-income groups, from visiting,” said a local resident.

DDA officials, however, defended their move, stating that the fee is necessary to improve park facilities and ensure better upkeep. “The revenue collected will be used for security arrangements, cleanliness, and infrastructure enhancement,” an official explained.

Despite this, the opposition to the fee continues to grow. Several Dwarka-based resident welfare associations (RWAs) have submitted petitions to local authorities, demanding immediate intervention. Social media campaigns against the decision have also gained momentum, with people expressing their frustration online.

Many fear that if this trend continues, other public parks in Delhi may also introduce entry fees, limiting access to green spaces for common citizens. Experts argue that instead of imposing fees, the government should look for alternative funding methods, such as corporate sponsorships or public-private partnerships, to maintain parks without burdening the public.

The protestors have warned of intensifying their demonstrations if DDA does not roll back the decision soon. The issue has also attracted political attention, with some local leaders voicing support for the protesters and urging authorities to rethink the move.

For now, the future of free public access to this Dwarka park remains uncertain. Residents continue to demand that their voices be heard, emphasizing that green spaces should be a fundamental right rather than a paid privilege.