A fresh dispute has erupted between residents of 15 colonies in Malviya Nagar and the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) over the alleged conversion of a public park into a private hospital. The residents claim that the civic body has signed an agreement with a private entity to develop a hospital on the Adinath Nagar Public Park located on JLN Marg.
Residents' Allegations
Uma Sharma, president of the Residents' Welfare Association of Adinath Colony, told TOI that the JDA recently entered into an agreement permitting the construction of a private hospital on the public park. She alleged that the project would also encroach upon the protected OTS Malviya Nagar Drain and its 30-metre buffer strip along JLN Marg.
We have concrete information about this deal, Sharma said. The JDA proceeded with the agreement despite an ongoing court case. The next hearing is scheduled for May 18, and we are waiting for that day. All residents of the 15 colonies who use this park will protest.
Land and Green Space at Stake
The residents stated that the JDA plans to use 17,433 square yards of land that was originally developed as a public park at a cost of Rs 4 crore. Thousands of trees were planted during the park's development, making it a vital green space for the locality. This park serves as the only public park for residents of approximately 15 surrounding colonies; there is no other public park within a vast radius, Sharma added.
She questioned the need for another private hospital, noting that renowned hospitals such as EHCC, Fortis, Rajasthan Hospital, and Jaipuria Hospital, along with about 10 other medical facilities, are already operating in the area.
Legal Context
The residents emphasized that the JDA's action violates court orders, as a case is already pending. The next hearing date is May 18, and the residents plan to protest if the project proceeds.
