The police and the BMC will now conduct joint drives and surprise inspections in city gardens and open spaces after complaints surfaced that these areas are being misused by drug peddlers and anti-social elements. The action comes after several MLAs raised concerns in the state assembly, saying parks meant for families are being used for drinking and illegal activities, making them unsafe for senior citizens, women, and children.

MLA’s concerns

Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande raised concerns over the safety of citizens in public gardens and open spaces, claiming that the situation has worsened due to negligence by the BMC and the police. He alleged that many gardens have been taken over by drug addicts and anti-social elements, and said the authorities are not doing enough to tackle the problem.