Residents of Harsh Apartments in Sector 10, Dwarka, are living under a constant state of fear due to an increasing number of monkeys in the area. What used to be occasional sightings has now escalated into a regular problem, with monkeys entering the premises every two to three days. Despite multiple complaints, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Najafgarh Zone has expressed its inability to catch the animals, citing a lack of financial resources.
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Why is the MCD not catching monkeys in Dwarka?
The MCD officials have officially informed the residents that the monkey-catching campaign is currently suspended or limited due to a shortage of funds. There is a lack of budget to pay existing catchers or to issue new tenders for the job. Currently, the MCD pays around ₹2,400 per monkey caught, but professional catchers are finding this rate too low given the risks involved. If residents choose to hire private catchers, the cost can go up to ₹20,000 per visit, and this also requires prior official permission.
Impact on residents and official safety guidelines
The frequent visits by monkeys have led to significant property damage at Harsh Apartments. Residents report that monkeys often break balcony pots, cut electricity and internet wires, and tear clothes left out to dry. The elderly and children are the most affected as they are scared to step out into common areas. According to Delhi High Court guidelines, caught monkeys can only be relocated to the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary. To manage the situation, authorities have shared specific data and rules:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Harsh Apartments, Pocket 1, Sector 10, Dwarka |
| Official Agency | MCD (Najafgarh Zone) |
| Relocation Point | Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Frequency of Menace | Every 2 to 3 days |
| MCD Payment Rate | ₹2,400 per monkey |
Common safety measures for Dwarka residents
The problem is not limited to Sector 10, as similar issues are being reported in Sectors 7, 22, and 23. The Delhi Forest Department maintains that while monkeys are wildlife, managing them in urban areas is the responsibility of the local body. Residents are advised to avoid feeding monkeys in public places, as this attracts them to residential buildings. Experts suggest installing iron meshes on balconies and keeping all food items out of sight to discourage monkeys from entering homes.
