Sambalpur: Sairindri Nayak Ladies Park near the historical Samiagudi Shaivite shrine has lost all its glory. Due to lack of maintenance, the park is in a shambles. Nevertheless, the park is still able to attract children.
The park was developed at a cost of Rs 6 lakh from MPLAD funds. On October 20, 2009, it was conceptualised to provide lung space for women and children. And, with an aim to inculcate the principles of Sairindri Nayak (September 1, 1928-June 26, 1995), the first woman MLA of undivided Sambalpur district, the park was named after her.
It has a statute of Sairindri Nayak. But the way it stands is nothing but a disgrace to her. The statute is left to the mercy of nature without a shade over it. The gates at the main entrance are off their hinges. There are different varieties of swings, but they are not functional as they are getting rusted.
The park has three cement benches which are also damaged. During daytime, children from nearby areas have turned it into a virtual cricket ground. After sunset, it becomes the den of antisocial elements, thanks to poor lighting.
During the ring road work, the boundary wall was demolished, paving the way for cattle to stray into the park and graze. In the process, the animals also damage ornamental plants.
Locals strongly feel that the park should be renovated. If it is done, people, instead of going to clubs to shake off tensions, can visit the park with families and relax.
When contacted, Bimalendu Ray, Commissioner, Sambalpur Municipal Corporation, admitted that the park is in a shambles. Its boundary wall also got damaged during the ring road work. It has been planned to renovate the park in 2017-18 fiscal, he added. PNN