BMC takes up renovation of parks

Bhubaneswar: In an effort to improve green spaces and amenities, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken up renovation of all the parks falling under its command area.

Out of the total 184 parks, 19 would be renovated completely, while the rest will undergo partial and minor repair works.BMC officials said the renovation drive includes horticulture upgrades. “We have planted shrubs and plants in such a way so that they are not affected much in case of a natural disaster, given Odisha’s susceptibility to cyclones,” a BMC officer said.BMC’s additional commissioner Kailash Chandra Dash said the work also covers repair of boundary walls, development of internal pathways, painting of park boundaries, repair of main gates and installation of signages.The civic body is also strengthening basic services in parks. For example, electricity and water connections have been provided in 144 parks. Fitness facilities have been expanded too, with 127 open-gym equipment units installed across 59 parks.BMC Officials said the expanding green cover has added to the city’s liveability, with larger parks serving as recreation and fitness hubs, especially where open gyms have been installed.

According to BMC officials, the city’s park network has grown significantly over the past six years. The city earlier had around 60 parks managed jointly by BMC and the Bhubaneswar Development Authority. Now there are 184 parks under BMC’s control.