H S Bilga, executive engineer, Horticulture department, said: “I will request the mayor and commissioner not to impose the new condition on PMCs as this will prove to be a deterrent. Almost all PMCs are doing a good job and few members of Atam Park and the Model Town area had recently requested me to suggest landscaping in the local parks, for which they are ready to pay from their own pockets. Looking at their enthusiasm, we should encourage them.”

MC Commissioner G S Ghuman, however, was surprised when Newsline asked him about the new rule in place. “Even if such a decision has been taken, it will be reverted. I have spoken to the mayor in this context and we will instruct the staff to accept the bills with signatures of only the area councillor.”