Hubballi's Railway Parks: From Green Havens to Neglected, Unsafe Spaces
More than 15 parks developed in Hubballi six to seven years ago have fallen into a state of severe disrepair due to a lack of consistent maintenance. Despite the South Western Railway (SWR) headquarters being located in Hubballi, several gardens on the railway premises have dried up, becoming inaccessible and unsafe for passengers.
Ahimsa Park: A Symbol of Neglect
Vijay Hurakadli, a regular passenger, highlighted the decline of Ahimsa Park near the main arch of Hubballi railway station. "It was once a source of pride for Hubballians and the Railways," he said. "Many passengers who arrived early used to spend time there. Now, the main gate is locked, while unauthorised entry points are open on the track and old parcel office side."
He added that miscreants use the area for illicit activities like consuming liquor at night, leaving behind sachets and bottles. Broken benches and a dried-up fountain further illustrate the negligence.
Sur Sangam Vatika Park: Lost Identity
Sanath SM, a student, recalled visiting Sur Sangam Vatika Park near the subway when it was developed in 2021. "It was an attractive space with statues of great classical musicians," he said. "Now, the board is covered by another reading 'Taxi Stand'. While main gates are locked, people enter through collapsed walls. The grass has dried and looks burnt, though old trees still provide shelter."
Safety Concerns for Passengers
Uttam O Satiya, spokesperson of the Indian Travellers Association in Hubballi, emphasized that the parks have become havens for miscreants rather than passengers. "There is no security mechanism to prevent non-passenger entry," he said. "Genuine passengers, especially women and children, cannot enter due to drunkards or smokers. Earlier, arriving passengers relaxed and took photographs, but that is now a thing of the past."
Historical Context and Current State
Several railway employees noted that parks in railway colonies have also been left unattended. A retired railway officer recalled that former general manager Ajay Kumar Singh took initiatives to develop gardens on railway premises during his 30-month tenure. "He personally visited these areas early in the morning to clean them," the officer said. "Following him, officials and staff remained alert about maintenance and cleanliness, but this vigilance has since faded."
Efforts to seek comment from SWR CPRO Manjunath Kanamadi were unsuccessful, as he was unavailable for response. The ongoing neglect raises questions about the allocation of resources and priorities within the railway administration, impacting both the environment and passenger experience in Hubballi.
