THE Cultural Street beside Bhawartal Garden, once projected as a lively pedestrian and cultural space, is now showing clear signs of neglect. The stretch, developed to promote art, culture and public activities, has gradually turned into an unauthorised parking area and a poorly maintained public space. The condition of the street is clear from its damaged and uneven paving. Large portions of the surface have broken down, making the stretch difficult to walk on. The space meant primarily for pedestrians is also being used for parking cars and two wheelers. The Cultural Street was conceived as a new cultural identity for Jabalpur. The Smart City plan envisaged it as a pedestrian oriented space where residents, particularly youngsters, could participate in cultural activities. It was planned with features such as tribal art, murals, sculptures and spaces for cultural events. The broader development around Bhawartal also included an intimate theatre and other cultural facilities.

 

Today, however, the original vision appears to have taken a back seat. Encroachments have come up along the stretch. Uncleanliness is seen at several places. The costly lighting and other installations are reportedly lying non-functional at several points. Residents also complain that the area becomes a place for drinking and other undesirable activities at night. The irony is that the Jabalpur Municipal Corporation is responsible for maintaining the street. Official planning documents had envisaged regular maintenance and encroachment control for such public spaces. People engaged art and cultural activities said the civic body needs to act before the Cultural Street loses its identity completely. Regular cleaning, repair of the damaged surface, removal of encroachments, prevention of illegal parking, restoration of lighting and effective night time security are urgently needed. What was planned as a cultural landmark of Jabalpur now needs the civic body's attention to regain its original purpose.