Udupi: A new park designed to support the recreational and developmental needs of specially-abled children is being planned at Bal Bhavan in Brahmagiri, Udupi. Named 'Samarthya Vana', the park will feature therapy swings, tactile pathways, musical instruments, and sensory gardens.
The project is a joint initiative of the Department of Women and Child Development, the Department for Empowerment of Differently-Abled and Senior Citizens, and the Udupi Zilla Panchayat. Its aim is to promote growth, recreation, and skill development among specially-abled children.
District Minister Laxmi R Hebbalkar laid the foundation stone for the project on Saturday. She emphasized that the park is envisioned as a comprehensive space supporting rehabilitation, therapeutic services, employment opportunities, and independent living for differently-abled children.
For implementation, a separate Samarthya Trust comprising officials has been constituted under the chairmanship of the ZP CEO. The park will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 4.9 crore, including Rs 1.5 crore in government grants and contributions from various organizations and institutions.
According to officials, Udupi district has 1,228 differently-abled children below the age of 15. The park is expected to provide them and their families with a dedicated space for recreation, therapy, and development. Proposed facilities include therapy swings, balance beams, musical instruments, tactile sensory pathways, sand and water play zones, and a sensory garden designed to help children experience different fragrances and textures.
Speaking after laying the foundation stone, Minister Hebbalkar said the park has the potential to become a model for the entire state and the country. 'Though the project has been planned for completion within four years, efforts should be made to complete it within two years so that it can be inaugurated during our tenure itself. Funds from our department will also be released at the earliest,' she said.
Udupi DC Swaroopa TK, ZP CEO Prateek Bayal, SP Hariram Shankar, and others were present on the occasion.
