The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has unveiled ambitious plans to create a new neighbourhood park at Kailash Vihar in Chandrasekharpur, aiming to provide much-needed recreational space for residents of this densely populated locality. With a budget of Rs 1.21 crore, this project represents a significant investment in urban green infrastructure for northern Bhubaneswar.
Addressing Longstanding Community Demands
According to BDA officials, the site earmarked for the park was recently cleared of encroachments following persistent complaints from local residents about the severe lack of open spaces in the area. The authority has now initiated preliminary groundwork to transform this vacant land into a vibrant green public space that will serve multiple community needs.
Comprehensive Park Design Features
The proposed park will feature an array of amenities designed to cater to diverse age groups and recreational preferences. Key elements include:
- Paved jogging and walking tracks for fitness enthusiasts
- Multiple seating areas with benches and shaded sitting arrangements
- Beautifully landscaped lawns for informal recreation and relaxation
- A dedicated children's play zone with modern equipment
Focus on Safety and Inclusivity
Chief Horticulturist of BDA, Sukant Swain, emphasized that the park design prioritizes greenery, walkability, and safety considerations, particularly for vulnerable groups like senior citizens and children. "A large number of residents in Kailash Vihar demanded a park for years. After clearing the encroachments, we decided to develop the land as a full-fledged park with all essential facilities," Swain stated.
He further explained, "Our objective is to create inclusive public spaces that improve the quality of life in residential areas. We have floated a tender for the project, and once finalized, development work will commence promptly."
Broader Green Infrastructure Initiative
This project forms part of BDA's comprehensive strategy to enhance green and recreational infrastructure across northern Bhubaneswar. The authority is simultaneously developing another park at Hatiasuni, a nearby locality experiencing similar residential growth patterns.
BDA officials noted, "Hatiasuni and Kailash Vihar are both growing residential pockets. These parks will serve as important community spaces that foster social interaction and improve urban living standards."
Community Response and Benefits
Local residents have enthusiastically welcomed the development initiative. Ramesh Sahu, a Kailash Vihar resident, expressed relief, stating, "Kailash Vihar is crowded and children hardly have any safe place to play. A proper park will be a big relief for families like ours."
Another resident, Sunita Mohanty, highlighted the benefits for elderly community members: "Many senior citizens currently go for morning walks on the roads, which is risky due to traffic. A park with a proper jogging track will provide a much safer and healthier alternative."
The development of this Rs 1.21 crore park at Kailash Vihar represents a significant step toward addressing urban planning challenges in rapidly growing residential areas. By converting previously encroached land into functional green space, BDA aims to create sustainable community assets that promote physical activity, social cohesion, and overall wellbeing for Bhubaneswar residents.
