How can they let this happen? This is really sad!

Thirty years on, Vashi library gets shut notice

Sonal Upreti I TNN

Navi Mumbai: In a satellite township that still lags behind in cultural activities, the civic authorities are on the verge of shutting down the Town Library, one of the oldest in Navi Mumbai.
The library, near Vashi police station, was officially opened to the public in 1975. Seven other NGOs, which have offices in the library building, have also received notice from the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation to vacate the premises by January 31.
The library, which is run by a public trust, had signed an agreement with Cidco that would be renewed every 11 months. It receives a government grant of Rs 1.2 lakh every year. The agreement expired in December 2006, after which the premises were handed over to NMMC by Cidco in March 2007. Now, NMMC has sent notices to vacate the premises.
“The library has 24,000 books and 1,000 members. Why is it being closed down when we are doing so much good work? The NMMC wants to invite other charitable trusts to open a library here. But why shut something that is already doing well?’’ says library secretary Vijay Kedare.
Spread over 1,200 sq ft, the library has many accomplished scholars, doctors and engineers as members. Students also prefer to spend time here and exchange notes. The community centre also houses the New Bombay Music and Drama Circle, which was established in 1975. It has witnessed performances by renowned artistes like Shobha Gurtu and won prizes in drama competitions.
“How can you remove such an old organisation at such short notice? Children are encouraged to develop their talents with various kinds of activities here. Why do they want to give the premises to another trust?’’ says Vivek Bhagat, who runs the centre.
S Deshpande, president of Nutan Mahila Mandal, which is located in the same building and has also received a notice, says, “We have helped women get employment and conduct singing classes and accupressure therapy. The organisation’s records are in place and we have submitted an audit report every year, ever since the NGO was started in 1976. Even though Cidco has transferred authority to NMMC, the activities must go on.’’ NMMC commissioner Vijay Nahata says the corporation will try to protect the library. “Their agreement with Cidco is over and the same rules have to apply to everyone. There will be a library on the premises, but the policy will be decided in the general body meeting soon.’’
Meanwhile, the library officials and its patrons face an uncertain future. “NMMC does not have any provisions for us. We have approached different political parties for help, but are yet to hear from them,’’ adds Kedare.
sonal.upreti@timesgroup.com

NOWHERE TO GO: Officials of the Town Library, which has 24,000 books and 1,000 members, have been told to vacate the premises by Jan 31