Murder shakes Dutch Layout in Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam: Dutch Layout is one of the popular landmarks on the Beach Road in the city with a very few civic issues. 

But the recent murder of a businessman in one of the apartments in the area, that too in day time, has shaken the residents forcing them to beef up security on the premises.

Those apartments which had not installed CCTVs have started doing so and the security guards are being instructed to check the visitors properly before allowing them inside.  

“I have been staying in the Dutch Layout for the last 18 years and never witnessed any major crime. The murder was the first one. Whatever may be the reasons, but we are installing CCTV cameras for the safety and security purpose. We are not experiencing any law and order issues here,” said Mayuri Beach apartment secretary Manoj Dugar.  

As about 70% of the people are tenants, the apartment associations are also planning to verify the people before renting of flats. 

Mostly businessmen, Navy personnel and government officials stay in the posh locality. 

The area is named Dutch Layout because about 300 years-old Dutch House which is now the Visakha Museum is still standing tall in the area.

“The food trucks dotting our main entrance road is leading to traffic jam and parking issues. But, GVMC has cleared it now resolving the issues,” said another resident Alok Dutta. However, the parks in the area are seen poorly maintained. 

Mr Manoj said, “This summer we experienced acute water scarcity owing to depleting groundwater. Hence, we have decided to take up rainwater harvesting carefully. It would be better if GVMC imposes fine on the apartments not implementing it. 

“Without enforcement, the residents take it lightly. Not only on the apartment premises, but the parks should have rainwater recharge pits,” Mr Manoj added.