Public park in shambles at Khanyar

Srinagar, Nov 7: Lack of maintenance has taken sheen off the public park at Khanyar area of Downtown Srinagar, causing inconvenience to visitors and locals.

A group of aggrieved locals said that the park situated near the shrine of Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA) is dilapidated amid neglect by concerned authorities.

Residents said the park was once envisioned as a much-needed recreational space for families and children of Khanyar and adjoining areas. It has now turned into an ugly patch of land. The park is full of litter, scrap, and construction debris, and lacks even the most basic facilitie,s and its condition paints a grim picture of official apathy.

“The ground surface is uneven, with large patches of bare land instead of grass. Despite the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) having installed dustbins at several points, they remain unused as garbage is scattered all around. The absence of benches and proper pathways has rendered the park defunct for residents who once hoped it would offer a green respite in the densely populated locality,” said Khalid Bashir, a local.

“It is very disheartening to see the park near the shrine being treated as a dumping ground. The park could have been a wonderful space for morning walks, children’s play, and community gatherings, but it has turned into a mess. It looks more like a landfill than a park, “ he added.

Residents said the park’s neglected state has also affected the overall aesthetics of the area. “The scattered mud, uneven surface, and dumped material make it look shabby and uninviting,” said another local.

Locals expressed concern that if the park continues to remain in such a state, it could attract anti-social elements, particularly at night. They said that with increasing reports of social issues in Srinagar, residents fear that the park could soon become a hotspot for such activities.

“Neglecting such public spaces doesn’t just waste resources, it endangers the social environment. If the park is developed properly, it could serve as a safe recreational space for families and a healthy outlet for the youth.” Another concerned local in the area said.

Residents have urged the SMC and other concerned departments to take immediate measures to restore the park’s glory by levelling the land, planting grass, installing benches, and ensuring regular maintenance.