Bhubaneswar: In a significant step towards enhancing green spaces and recreational facilities in the city, MLA Susant Kumar Rout led the groundbreaking ceremony for the Rajagada Patia park on Wednesday. The event also marked the inauguration of the designated parking plaza and a 900-meter-long Nature trail at Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra park in Gadakana. The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) is overseeing the development and maintenance of these initiatives.
BMC Mayor Sulochana Das, BDA VC Balwant Singh, DFO, City Division Ajit Kumar Satpathy, local corporators, and other officials were present during the groundbreaking ceremony and inauguration.
Spanning 11 acres adjacent to the crematorium, the RG Patia park envisions becoming a lush green space with dense forest cover. It is set to provide various amenities, including nature trails, reflexology paths, rain shelters, water bodies, and ample parking space. Additionally, plans include the incorporation of an open-air gym, children’s play area, and yoga space. Adequate sitting facilities and open areas for visitors to explore are also part of the park’s design.
The establishment of RG Patia park is a response to persistent local demands, aligning with the city’s green vision. Urban forest parks play a crucial role in the city’s ecosystem, acting as lungs by purifying the air and providing habitats for various flora and fauna. Beyond environmental benefits, these parks contribute to recreational activities like birdwatching and nature education programs, fostering a stronger bond between urban dwellers and nature.
Similarly, the inauguration of a dedicated parking lot and a nature trail at Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra park in Gadakana aligns with BDA’s green Bhubaneswar vision. The parking lot, spanning 1.1 acres, can accommodate over 100 four-wheelers and more than 220 two-wheelers. Notably, BDA’s efforts to save a large Banyan Tree, translocated from Right Parallel Road to KCM park, were appreciated by all present.
VC BDA, Mr. Singh, expressed confidence that all works related to the Patia park would be completed within the next six months. Funded under CIDF and executed by the City Division of the Forest department, the initiative aims to enhance the city’s green infrastructure. Mr. Singh urged city residents to extend their cooperation in making these green initiatives successful.