Noida Residents Voice Strong Opposition to Temple Proposal in Vrindavan Park
In Noida's Sector 15A, a group of residents has raised significant objections to the Noida Authority's recent proposal to construct a temple within Vrindavan Park, located adjacent to a local club. The park, which spans over 1,000 square meters, is a cherished green oasis featuring numerous trees, paved walkways, and benches, regularly utilized by morning walkers and children for recreation and relaxation.
Residents Highlight Concerns Over Green Space Depletion
Last week, the Noida Authority installed a noticeboard indicating that a 361-square-meter section of the park has been earmarked for the temple. Residents argue that this move would deprive the sector of its sole green space, which is already constrained by the foul-smelling Shahadra drain on one side and the heavily congested Dadri Road on the other. SP Singh, a retired IAS officer and resident since 1990, has formally written to the Noida Authority CEO, pointing out that the original sector master plan designated the site for a pumphouse, with no mention of a temple.
Singh emphasized that the Authority's notification contradicts the park's long-established purpose and could lead to the felling of 20 to 40 mature trees, exacerbating the area's already limited green cover. He also called for greater transparency in the allotment process, noting that his wife recently tripped and fell on tapes placed around the park during her morning walk, highlighting potential safety hazards.
Security and Safety Issues Raised by Locals
Vidhi Chawla, a 35-year-old resident, expressed genuine security concerns regarding the temple proposal. She explained that Sector 15A is not a gated community and lacks controlled access, making it difficult to legally or practically restrict entry once a temple is established. Without proper safeguards and planning, the unrestricted movement of visitors could pose a threat to the safety and peace of residents, raising alarms about potential disturbances and risks.
Noida Authority's Response and Clarifications
In response, the Noida Authority stated that the plot was originally earmarked for a temple on 600 square meters in the master plan, which has since been reduced to 300 square meters. CEO Krishna Karunesh clarified that the 361-square-meter section is classified as a facility plot, a land parcel designated for community-related infrastructure such as transformers, temples, or commercial uses like milk booths. According to Authority records, construction of religious structures or other appropriate facilities is permissible under the rules on such plots.
Karunesh added that the demand for the temple was initiated by a section of residents, and the Authority is merely facilitating this request. He encouraged residents with objections to submit them in writing for appropriate action, noting that no formal complaints have been received so far. Deputy director of horticulture, Anand Mohan Singh, further claimed that the plot does not fall under a green belt, and the forest department's permission would be obtained before any tree felling occurs.
This dispute underscores ongoing tensions between urban development and environmental preservation in Noida, with residents advocating for the protection of vital green spaces while authorities navigate community demands and regulatory frameworks.
