The New Town Kolkata Development Authority (NKDA) has launched a comprehensive renovation drive for all public parks across the satellite township. This initiative comes in direct response to numerous complaints from residents regarding poor maintenance, which had turned some green spaces into potential health hazards.
Addressing Key Resident Grievances
The overhaul targets several critical issues raised by the community. A primary concern was the proliferation of potted plants, which had become potential mosquito breeding grounds due to water accumulation. To eliminate this problem permanently, the NKDA has decided to remove all pots. They will be replaced with seasonal flower beds, which will be easier to maintain and monitor.
Another significant fear among residents was overgrown grass, which not only made parks look unkempt but also raised concerns about snakes finding cover. The authority has planned extensive lawn mowing across all 24 parks and gardens to address this. The list of parks slated for improvement includes popular theme parks like Apur Sansar Park, Professor Shanku Park, Sonar Kella Park, Activity Park, and Neem Banani.
Comprehensive Aesthetic and Functional Upgrades
The renovation is not just about solving problems but also enhancing the beauty and utility of these community spaces. Water fountains will be installed in existing small pools within several parks to improve the landscape. Furthermore, defective lighting systems, a common complaint, will be fully replaced to ensure parks are well-lit and safe during evenings.
The NKDA will also focus on repairing and repainting damaged park furniture, including swings, slides, and benches. Walls and premises inside the parks will receive a fresh coat of paint to give them a vibrant look. This multi-pronged approach aims to transform the parks into more inviting and functional areas for families and children.
Resident Response and Future Maintenance Plans
Local residents have welcomed the move, acknowledging that the facelift was long overdue. Samir Gupta, Secretary of the New Town Citizens Welfare Fraternity, stated that while the makeover is appreciated, the authorities must now focus on a robust mechanism for regular upkeep. He also urged the NKDA to improve the condition of green verges across New Town.
In line with this, the NKDA has confirmed that apart from the park renovations, it will undertake cleaning of overgrown bushes and weeds from vacant plots and green verges under the Amader Para Amader Samadhan (APAS) scheme. This indicates a broader commitment to enhancing the overall greenery and livability of New Town, transforming it based on direct citizen feedback.
