The serene and refreshing parks of Delhi, once freely accessible to all, are now set to introduce an entry fee. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has announced a charge of ₹20 per person per visit or ₹200 per month for entry into its parks. This decision has sparked outrage among regular visitors, especially senior citizens and fitness enthusiasts, who frequent these green spaces for their morning and evening walks.
DDA’s New Entry Fee: What You Need to Know
According to the latest directive from the Delhi Development Authority, all major DDA parks across the capital will soon implement an entry fee. Reports indicate that this new rule could come into effect starting April 1, 2025. However, there is no official confirmation regarding its precise implementation date.
Why is Delhi Charging an Entry Fee for Parks?
Delhi authorities justify this move by citing multiple reasons:
- Curbing anti-social activities: Many parks have become hubs for anti-social elements who misuse public spaces and damage property.
- Improved maintenance: The revenue generated from entry fees will be utilized for the upkeep, security, and beautification of parks.
- Preventing overcrowding: Authorities believe that a nominal fee will help regulate footfall and ensure a better experience for visitors.
Public Outrage Over Delhi Park Entry Fee
The decision to impose a fee has received severe backlash from Delhi residents, particularly those who rely on these parks for their daily dose of fresh air and exercise. Many argue that parks are public spaces meant for everyone, and charging a fee restricts access to lower-income groups.
Fitness enthusiasts and joggers are also frustrated by this move, as Delhi’s increasing pollution levels make outdoor exercise in green spaces essential.
Burari Coronation Park Entry Fee Triggers Protests
Residents have already voiced strong opposition to the implementation of entry charges at Burari Coronation National Park. Protesters argue that this decision is unnecessary and unfair, as many people depend on these parks for their mental and physical well-being.
Local fitness groups and community leaders have called for a reconsideration of the policy, emphasizing that the government should focus on increasing green spaces rather than monetizing existing ones.
Delhi Parks Affected by the New Fee
The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) manages over 800 parks in the capital, and some of the most famous ones expected to implement the new charge include:
- Burari Coronation Park
- Sanjay Lake Park
- Millennium Indraprastha Park
- Japanese Park, Rohini
- Deer Park, Hauz Khas
- Biodiversity Park, Vasant Kunj
These parks have long served as vital green lungs in Delhi, providing an escape from the city’s worsening air pollution.
What is the Government’s Justification?
Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor (LG) stated that the ₹20 per visit charge is necessary due to increasing vandalism and security concerns in public parks. Authorities believe that charging an entry fee will discourage miscreants from loitering and damaging public property.
Moreover, they claim that the funds collected will be reinvested into better park infrastructure, sanitation facilities, and security patrols.
