Jamshedpur: A public park in Shastrinagar Block-4 in Kadma has become unusable within three years of its inauguration due to neglect. Built at a cost of Rs 75.44 lakh along Kharkai river, the park was thrown open for locals in 2023. It quickly became popular among the local morning walkers and as a playing area for children.Three years later, the park now wears a deserted look. Its infrastructure has been rendered useless. A thick overgrowth of vegetation has begun taking over the once-carefully pruned lawns, and dysfunctional lights deter locals from visiting the facility after sunset.Cattle are seen grazing inside the park during the day, while the area becomes a gathering spot for drunkards and drug addicts in the evening.The construction of the park was carried out by the urban development department. Its upkeep is the responsibility of Jharkhand Notified Area Committee (JNAC).Upset, locals have called for its immediate renovation. “The condition of the park has gone from bad to worse. Neglecting such public spaces doesn’t just waste resources; it endangers the social environment,” said Mohammed Amjad, a local resident.Mahinder Kaur, another local, said, “Children regularly visited the park after it was opened. However, the facility is no longer considered suitable as all the swings and walkways have been damaged, while the scattered mud makes it look shabby. The administration should look after the park and ensure regular maintenance.”“The park has been inspected, and it was found that there has been neglect in its upkeep. We will ensure that necessary improvements are made at the earliest so that the park could be reopened and used by the residents,” JNAC municipal commissioner Yogendra Prasad said.
