'Mindset Change Needed for Encroachment-free Footpaths', Scientist

A mindset change among people and administrators, orchestrated by the media, NGOs and social organisations, was essential for encroachment free footpaths in the country, Professor B.R. Sant, a retired scientist, who has steadied the subject in-depth said.

He was delivering the guest lecture at the monthly meeting of the Forum for Senior Citizens of Tarnaka (FSCT) on March 24^th. He spoke at length on the prevailing state of footpaths and explained the hardships being faced by pedestrians. Categorising encroachers into three categories - street vendors, shopkeepers and house-owners, he sought cooperation from media, NGO's and social organizations to restore footpath mission (RFM).

Prof. B.R.Sant, who published a booklet 'Where are our Foot paths?' to draw the attention of law makers, was freely distributed. He agreed that though making Encroachment Free Footpath (EFF) is indeed a tough and challenging task, we can find acceptable solution if people change their mindset.

The monthly meeting FSCT was held at the Nagarjuna Nagar community hall. The meeting was chaired by President Sri V. Nageshwar Rao. Welcoming the audience, the secretary Sri. G.R.S.Prasad rao, gave a brief account of the activities carried out along with the message to be observed on EARTH DAY falling on 24th March.

Sri S. L. Guru Raja, Vice President, gave details of the carrom tournament organized for LATE P.L. MENON’S MEMORIAL ROLLING CARROM TROPHY, in which seven colony associations participated, and the prize distribution ceremony to be held on 30th March along with the QUIZ programme arranged for students.

The meeting ended with vote of thanks by Sri Paramahamsa who was optimistic about realizing the goal and requested for involvement & participation by house owners in this social cause.

By B. Omprakash