Govt panel seeks report on integration of Delhi’s three civic agencies

Amid the speculation and demand for the unification of three municipal corporations in the city by the political parties, the Delhi government’s fifth finance commission has sought a report from the commissioners on the integration of civic agencies.

They have been asked to give views and feasibility on the unification of the corporations. In reply to report, the North and East Corporations have submitted ‘a positive reply’ and supported the unification of the three Corporations. On the other hand, the South Corporation denied having replied to the proposal yet.

“We have already prepared the reply and will submit it to the government soon. We believe the unification will surely help in improving the financial crisis, uniform development and coming over other shortcomings in the department,” said senior North DMC official.

Since trifurcation, the East and North Corporation have been facing severe financial crisis and at times, both of them have not been able to pay the salaries of their employees. Officials argue that unification will improve the fiscal prudence due to even distribution of resources.

“We have been the biggest sufferer out of trifurcation. Our income is 14% and expenditure is 24 % and in the given circumstances it is difficult to do any development work in our areas. Due to poor demographic location and rampant unauthorised construction, situation is getting worst day by day. We support the unification else the assets should be distributed equally among the three corporations,” said Mohanjeet Singh, commissioner, East Delhi Municipal Corporation.

As per source, around sixth months back there was a discussion on unification of three civic bodies in the Ministry of Home affairs, Government of India but no consensus was reached.

Last week, MP Maheish Girri also raised the matter in Parliament citing the financial crunch in MCD has been affecting its functioning. He had also written to all four MLAs to bring a proposal in this regard to Delhi Assembly. “Girri has sought an appointment with PM Narendra Modi for unification of MCD,” said an office functionary of MP.