Patna Municipal Corporation Creates New Recreational Hub from Abandoned Land
The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has successfully transformed a long-abandoned plot of land opposite the historic Patna Museum in Chajjubagh into a vibrant recreational zone named Square Street. This innovative urban development project spans more than 2,000 square metres and represents a significant step toward creating organised public spaces within the city.
Addressing Dual Urban Challenges
This initiative is strategically designed to tackle two pressing urban concerns simultaneously. First, it provides residents with a structured recreational area where they can relax and enjoy street food in a pleasant environment. Second, it aims to remove encroachments from busy roads by relocating roadside vendors to organised stalls within the complex.
All construction work has been completed, and preparations are actively underway to relocate food vendors from roadside locations to the designated stalls. Once operational, Square Street will serve as a designated hangout spot where people can gather, socialize, and enjoy local cuisine without causing traffic disruptions.
First of Five Planned Projects
Square Street marks the first of five such projects planned by the Patna Municipal Corporation to systematically create organised public spaces across the city. Municipal commissioner Yashpal Meena confirmed that additional projects are already in progress at various locations.
"One project is located near Patna Junction, adjacent to the old multi-level car parking area, where food vendors and sellers can establish stalls to alleviate congestion and traffic," Meena explained. "Three more sites are planned in Madrassa Lane, Mandiri Chinea Koti, and near the Digha Golambar, where vendors from J P Ganga Path can relocate their shops."
Extensive Site Preparation and Development
The transformation of the Chajjubagh site required substantial preparation work. A municipal official involved with the project revealed that the land had previously been filled with sludge and waste material. Over the course of a month, nearly sixty hyva trucks were deployed to clear and level the site before beautification work could commence.
Following the extensive cleanup, the area has been developed with basic landscaping and essential public amenities. Approximately thirty benches have been installed throughout the premises to accommodate visitors, while strategically placed lamp posts ensure proper lighting during evening hours.
Enhanced Ambience and Facilities
To create an inviting atmosphere, trees and plantations throughout Square Street have been decorated with decorative strip lights that enhance the visual appeal after sunset. The civic body has also constructed a public washroom facility that is expected to become fully functional within a week after final touches are completed.
PMC spokesperson Priya Saurabh emphasized the community-focused vision behind the project. "People can use these spots to sing, play games, and eat in a comfortable, organized setting," she stated, highlighting the space's potential to encourage community engagement and social interaction.
Vendor Integration and Regulation
As part of the comprehensive approach, vendors who relocate to Square Street and other planned sites will receive official "vendor cards" that link them to various Bihar government welfare schemes. This system provides a safer and more regulated alternative to operating unauthorized roadside stalls while ensuring vendors have access to government benefits and protections.
Work to clear and level the additional sites mentioned by Commissioner Meena has already begun, indicating the municipal corporation's commitment to expanding this model across Patna. By creating designated spaces for vendors and recreational activities, the PMC aims to significantly reduce congestion while improving pedestrian and vehicular movement in surrounding areas.
