Editor,
I would like to highlight the condition of Mahatma Gandhi Park/Polo Park, Naharlagun – the only public park in Naharlagun. This park is an important space where students, elderly people, families, and ordinary citizens come for a dust-free walk and to spend some peaceful time.
Although the park charges an entry fee of Rs 20, there are hardly any facilities provided. There is poor maintenance, unhygienic toilet conditions, and clutter in many areas of the park. One wonders where the revenue generated over the years is being invested by the Arunachal Pradesh forest department.
Another serious concern is lighting and safety. Only three street lamps are functioning in the entire park, and even those work occasionally. Many other lamps appear to be mere showpieces. Since most people visit during the evening, walking in darkness raises safety concerns.
For students and ordinary citizens, Rs 20 per entry is too high for daily visits. Someone jogging morning and evening would spend around Rs 1,200 a month. A family outing in the evening could easily cost around Rs 100 daily, or Rs 3,000 a month, which is excessive for many residents. At such rates, people may prefer joining a gym where facilities are actually provided.
What makes this situation more puzzling is that Indira Gandhi Park, Itanagar, which is much larger and better equipped with proper lighting and facilities, is free for the public. This raises the question of why the residents of Naharlagun are being charged so heavily, as if everyone here were as wealthy as Mukesh Ambani.
There are chances of intoxication and other unwanted activities taking place inside the park at night due to lack of monitoring. Authorities should not wait for an unfortunate incident before taking action.
A public park should be accessible to everyone. If an entry fee is necessary, it should be minimal – Rs 5 or Rs 10 – or the park should be free for students and the general public. More importantly, proper maintenance, lighting, hygiene, and security must be ensured.
A concerned citizen