Ranchi: Open gyms will be installed in all the wards of Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) to promote fitness and public health. The project, initiated by Union minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth, will be implemented by the civic body, officials said.“The initiative aims to bring free fitness infrastructure directly to the doorsteps of the youth, women, senior citizens and children, ensuring a healthier and fitter population,” Seth, the incumbent Ranchi MP, said. The gyms will feature robust, weather-resistant equipment engineered to endure adverse outdoor conditions.Ranchi mayor Roshni Khalkho said all councillors have been directed to locate at least one suitable site within their wards for the facility. “The project will be rolled out in a phased manner to foster health, fitness and an elevated lifestyle across the city,” she said. The RMC has 53 wards.Site identification is already underway in several areas. On Wednesday, Seth and Khalko jointly inspected one such site in Airport Colony to assess its feasibility.The state capital presently has open gyms at Jaipal Singh Stadium, Children’s Park and Oxygen Park. The announcement has triggered enthusiasm among locals who prefer outdoor workouts. Arpit Gupta, a city-based fitness enthusiast, said, “Having an open gym nearby would be a welcome alternative to enclosed fitness centres, allowing residents to exercise while breathing in fresh air.”Seth is also slated to roll out a ‘Fatty Liver Free Ranchi’ campaign in the city next week. Under this initiative, four specialised mobile screening buses will go around the city and offer free diagnostic services to residents. Two such vehicles, each costing Rs 1.3 crore and being funded under the corporate social responsibility initiative, will be rolled out next week.
