The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has officially opened the gates of the much-anticipated Sadbhavana Park to the residents of the capital. This expansive green space, now named the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sadbhavana Udyan, was thrown open to the public on Thursday, marking a new recreational hub along Mahatma Gandhi Road.
Inauguration and Naming Ceremony
The park was formally inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena in June this year. However, it remained closed for finishing touches on certain amenities like the walking track and lawn areas. The public opening coincides with the ongoing beautification efforts. The naming ceremony took place on the birth centenary of the former Prime Minister, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also in attendance.
Features and Attractions of the Park
Spanning 11 acres, the park boasts a variety of features designed for leisure and visual appeal. Visitors can stroll along marble pathways, relax on expansive lawns, or enjoy the shaded eating plazas. The park includes traditional baradaris, sculpted fountains, toilets, and open recreational zones.
One of the central artistic installations is a striking sculpture of five white horses being guided by a sarathi (charioteer), set within a water body with fountains. Additionally, four Yakshini sculptures crafted by Padma Vibhushan awardee Sudarshan Sahoo have been installed, enriching the park's cultural aesthetic.
Pending Work and Future Additions
While the park is now accessible, some elements are still underway. DDA officials confirmed that a statue or bust of Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be installed soon. Work on a clock tower, which began in August, is ongoing. A planned food van facility near the parking area, announced during the June inauguration, is also yet to be operational. Entry to the park is ticketed.
Part of a Larger Green Redevelopment Plan
Officials explained that the park was conceptualized under the guidance of the Lieutenant Governor as part of a strategic plan to decongest the popular Kartavya Path lawns. It is a key component of a larger landscape redevelopment project along Mahatma Gandhi Road, which includes three parks in total.
The first park in this series, Kranti Udyan, was inaugurated in January. The overall scheme integrates a green belt spread across 35 acres, extending over a 1.7-kilometre stretch along the Ring Road, with the aim of creating a vibrant urban hub where visitors can connect with nature.
The opening of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sadbhavana Udyan provides a significant new lung space for Delhi, blending art, horticulture, and public utility in the heart of the city.
