Nagpur High Court Criticizes Forest Department Over Vanbala Miniature Train Closure
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court expressed strong concern on Wednesday. Judges slammed the forest department for keeping the Vanbala miniature train shut down for too long. They highlighted a worrying trend of children spending excessive time on mobile phones and television screens.
Court Emphasizes Need for Outdoor Recreation
Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode formed the bench. They observed that most children today remain engrossed in digital devices. The bench stressed that real-life recreational experiences like the Vanbala train are crucial. Such facilities allow parents to bring their children outdoors on weekends.
The court directed the forest department to give top priority to restarting the Vanbala facility. It noted that outdoor initiatives play a vital role in children's holistic development. The bench expressed clear displeasure upon hearing the department's timeline.
Prolonged Shutdown and Technical Issues
The forest department informed the court that resuming operations at Balodyan would take nearly six months. The court took serious note of repeated technical glitches forcing the train's closure. It ordered the department to submit a detailed status report within one week.
The Vanbala miniature train restarted in December 2023 after a seven-year gap. However, it soon developed frequent technical problems. This forced another shutdown shortly after reopening.
Plans to revamp the 1.9-kilometer track in 2023 were not implemented. This has left the miniature train completely non-operational. The court's intervention seeks to address these persistent issues.
Broader Implications for Child Development
The bench's remarks underscore a growing societal concern. Children's increasing confinement to screens worries many experts. Outdoor recreational facilities provide essential physical and social benefits.
The Vanbala train case highlights administrative delays affecting public amenities. The court's firm stance aims to expedite corrective actions. Ensuring functional recreational spaces remains a key priority for community well-being.
