PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Dehradun
The Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) claimed that it has intensified its checking drive at paying guest accommodations in Dehradun after a PG building collapsed in South Delhi’s Satya Niketan, officials said on Tuesday. The move has raised fresh concerns over the safety of students living in PGs, especially in university areas.
Most PGs in the city are located around Premnagar, Karanpur, Clement Town and Sahastradhara. MDDA secretary Mohan Singh Barnia said the authority had already started checking PGs on the outskirts of the city. However, the drive has now been intensified following the Delhi incident.
“MDDA has directed engineers and assistant engineers to conduct regular checks and ensure compliance with the rules at PGs,” he said.
A social media search by this reporter found more than 1,000 PGs operating across Dehradun. A visit to Karanpur found several PGs operating in narrow lanes, raising concerns about emergency access and student safety.
A student living in Karanpur said he shares a room with a roommate on the third floor because the accommodation is close to his college. He said the building has narrow stairs and small rooms.
The investigation also found that some PGs lack security guards, lifts and proper drinking water facilities. Dampness and poor ventilation were also reported at several accommodations.
The intensified checks are important as authorities need to ensure that PG buildings meet basic fire and safety standards before housing large numbers of students.
