Security beefed up at RCF, no entry for people taking a shortcut to Mahul
By Kamiya Mohan Jani
Security Officials at Rashtriya Chemical Fertilizers (RCF) colony in
Chembur have restricted entry for commuters who prefer to escape the
traffic in Chembur Colony to reach Ashish Theatre or Mahul by using
their private road.
Although the road is a private one and entry has always been
restricted people did use this road as a shortcut many times in the
past. However, lately this is a thing of the past as security officials
have started checking almost every vehicle using the road, restricting
entry to residents of the colony and to those working or studying
there. People are now asked to turn back if security officials at the
gate find that the road is being used to go to the other side.
“At least three-four times in the year, they beef up the security
and prevent outsiders from using their road,” says Kishore Lala,
resident of Navjeevan Society, who goes there for morning walks and
exercise. According to Sapna Shahri, resident of Nityanand Baug, who
has been using the RCF road for years now, security is generally beefed
up during the summer vacations for some reason.
When this correspondent spoke to a security guard stationed at the
gate, he clarified that RCF is not a public property and they could not
allow anyone and everyone to use their private road. “All the RCF
employees have a pass and on showing up that pass, we let them in,” he
said on the condition of anonymity.
Another security guard, who has been working there for the past few
years, informed that there were cases of theft near the water tank in
RCF. “We have been instructed to keep a tab on miscreants entering the
area and so we do not allow outside vehicles in this premises. Many
people use RCF as a short cut to reach at the other end to get rid of
the two signals placed at the main road,” he reveals.
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) also averred that RCF was not a
public property. “The security has always been strict and will remain
so in the future also,” she said. People do agree that RCF is not a
public property and must not be open to all. But at the same time, they
even appreciate its beauty and want to enjoy the greenery around.
“People should behave in a civilized manner and should not take undue
advantage if they are given access to this road. Not everyone gains
entry for a shortcut. People come to enjoy the beauty of the parks
too,” asserts Lala.