Delhi University women’s colleges flag e-rickshaw menace, dark spots, unsafe stretches and poor connectivity to LG

Delhi LG orders agencies to improve lighting, CCTV, policing and public transport around DU women’s colleges following safety concerns.

E-rickshaws blocking college entrances, unsafe last-mile connectivity, encroached footpaths, dark spots and poorly lit stretches were among several safety concerns raised by principals of Delhi University’s women’s colleges during a meeting with lieutenant governor (LG) Taranjeet Singh Sandhu on Wednesday.

Delhi University students participate in a Women Safety March organized by students at Chhatra Marg, faculty of art, for issues concerning the safety of female students, a secure campus environment, and effective security arrangements within the Delhi University campus. (Sonu Mehta/Hindustan Times)

The principals also flagged unregulated vending, unsafe parks, public toilets near campuses, obscene flashing and need for more pink booths and increased police patrolling around college premises.

“Instilling a sense of security and trust among students is the primary aim. The concerns will be addressed through coordinated action by the police, civic agencies, transport department, Public Works Department (PWD), Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and Delhi Metro,” an official said.

The LG directed the PWD and MCD to repair streetlights, install high-mast lights and strengthen CCTV coverage at bus stops and other stretches used by students.

Encroachments, unauthorised structures, vendors and taxi stands around colleges will be removed and overgrown vegetation and objectionable graffiti will be cleared, officials added.

The Delhi Police was directed to increase patrolling, PCR deployment and picket checking around colleges, metro stations and isolated stretches, particularly during morning and evening hours. The transport department was asked to improve connectivity between colleges and metro stations through shuttle, U-Special and feeder bus services.

It was also directed to regulate e-rickshaws and autos through designated pick-up and drop-off points.

Principals of LSR, Miranda House, Gargi, Indraprastha and other women’s colleges, DU vice-chancellor and senior officials attended the meeting.