Two theme parks along J P Ganga Path to showcase state’s legacy

Patna: The riverfront stretch around Bans Ghat and JP Ganga Path is all set for a cultural makeover, with two major theme parks being developed to showcase Bihar’s democratic legacy, heritage and environmental consciousness.

A waste-to-wonder park dedicated to Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Narayan (JP) and another dedicated to Dr Rajendra Prasad ‘Bihar Gaurav Park’ are coming up near Bans Ghat as part of the state’s riverfront transformation project. The work on both parks, which began in Aug last year, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.The first park is being developed as a tribute to Jayaprakash Narayan, renowned for his role in India’s freedom struggle and the movement against the Emergency.

Built at an estimated cost of Rs 12.46 crore, the park aims to introduce JP’s principles and ideals to the younger generation through innovative, eco-friendly displays, officials of Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (BUIDCO), the nodal agency for the project, said.Sweta Bhasker, public relations officer of BUIDCO, said the park’s highlight will be a series of artworks and sculptures depicting key milestones in JP’s life, creatively crafted from scrap metal, waste materials and other recycled items.

“These sculptures will vividly illustrate various phases of his journey, from his early life to his achievements,” she said.The park will feature landscaped green spaces, modern amenities and a design that allows easy movement. Facilities include indoor and outdoor sports arenas for box cricket and pickleball, walking pathways, outdoor lighting and a solar-powered electricity system. Security arrangements will include CCTV cameras, a public announcement system and controlled entry and exit points with boom barriers and turnstiles.

Additional works include landscaping, irrigation pipelines and efficient water management systems.Alongside this, construction of the Dr Rajendra Prasad ‘Bihar Gaurav Park’ near Bans Ghat is progressing rapidly at an estimated cost of Rs 14.9 crore. Spread over 10.5 acres, the park will commemorate India’s first President by upgrading his existing memorial into a grand complex aligned with the broader riverfront development along JP Ganga Path.The project includes a large entrance plaza decorated with traditional Tikuli art and inspired by Europe’s Renaissance-era piazzas to encourage public interaction and community engagement. A massive central tower will serve as the memorial’s focal point, housing a museum and library dedicated to Dr Rajendra Prasad’s life, achievements and philosophical contributions.The park will also showcase Bihar’s historical and cultural heritage through waste-recycled art installations depicting figures such as Aryabhata, Chanakya, Emperor Ashoka, JP and Dashrath Manjhi.

Architectural landmarks including Nalanda and Vikramshila universities, stupas, temples and mausoleums will be highlighted, along with artistic representations of the state’s wildlife, including the gaur and Bengal tiger.Visitor-friendly amenities such as food courts, refreshment zones, recreational spaces and a children’s playground are also planned. Aligned with the Swachh Bharat mission, the parks aim not only to beautify the riverfront but also to promote environmental responsibility, innovation and Bihar’s enduring legacy of education, resilience and social reform.