FOSWAC wants hike in park maintenance cost

Chandigarh, August 25

Finding it tough to manage with limited funds, the Federation of Sector Welfare Associations of Chandigarh (FOSWAC) today demanded from the Municipal Corporation to raise the maintenance charges of parks being looked after by various Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs).

FOSWAC members during its executive meeting held today demanded that the charges should be increased to Rs 4 per sq metre.

“For the past about six years the rates have remained the same. We request the corporation to increase the funds and give us adequate amount so that parks could be maintained properly. Otherwise more RWAs will be forced to return the parks to the civic body,” said FOSWAC chairman Baljinder Singh Bittu.

Col Kulwinder Singh (retd), general secretary, RWA, Sector 10, said, “The maintenance rates were fixed around five years ago. The expenses increased due to increase in labour rates. There is a need to revise the rates so that RWAs do not lose money on this account.” On this, a senior MC official said, “RWAs are receiving Rs 2.45 per sq metre, which is more than what is being paid in Panchkula and Mohali. We believe this is sufficient for maintenance.” — TNS