The parks and gardens of Bhopal, the capital city, are increasingly falling into a state of disrepair. Developed by the Municipal Corporation with the aim of promoting a clean environment and community interaction across the city, these parks have now become mere namesakes. A clear lack of maintenance is evident in most parks, causing distress not only to citizens who visit for walks and exercise but also leading to significant disappointment for children and the elderly. Several prominent parks in Bhopal, such as Narmada Park in the Ashoka Garden area, have deteriorated alarmingly. Swings in the parks remain unrepaired, fountains are defunct, and in some areas, even benches for seating are absent.

 

There is a lack of adequate seating for senior citizens, nor are there any exercise facilities for them. The pathways within the parks are also marred by filth and damage, causing inconvenience to those who come for strolls. Locals expressed that due to this negligence by BMC and the Parks Department, the parks have lost their original purpose. News reports suggest that officials receive a budget of crores of rupees annually for these parks. According to information, the Parks Department is allocated approximately Rs 5 crore every year for the development and maintenance of parks, roadside greenery, and center verges. Despite this, the condition of most parks is deplorable. A particularly concerning issue is the questionable presence of the employees appointed for the upkeep of these parks. Locals claim that responsible staff are rarely seen in the parks. Local admn’s silence and public expectations While the residents of the capital need a clean and peaceful environment, the administration’s indifference is deeply disappointing the citizens. If these parks were properly maintained, they could become ideal spaces for children to play, the elderly to exercise, and for social interaction. In Ward No. 69, residents are irate over severe lack of security and facilities in the public parks.

 

Due to increasing activities of anti-social elements in the park, women and children feel unsafe. A resident M L Tiwari stated, “Women and children do not feel safe here. Fights and verbal abuse are common at night.” He also mentioned the absence of CCTV cameras in the park, making it difficult to curb theft and anti-social activities. People are demanding provision of basic facilities in the park, strengthening security arrangements, and ensuring control over anti-social elements. They believe that the situation will not improve until the administration takes concrete steps in this direction. Corporator Gupta says Corporator of Ward No. 69, Suryakant Gupta, stated that he has also received information about the gathering of some anti-social elements in the park. He said, “It is true that local people sometimes face problems. There was a swing in the park which is now broken. Its repair has been pending for a long time, but the repair work will be started soon.” The park is currently open to the public from 6 am to 10 am and from 4 pm to 8 pm. However, locals expect better arrangements for CCTV cameras, lighting, cleanliness, and children’s play equipment in the park so that this place can become safe and enjoyable for everyone.