Sir,

This has reference to the letter “Cheluvamba Park Walking Track Crying for Attention” (SOM dated Oct. 9). That the walking path requires immediate attention of the authorities has been the demand of hundreds of walkers using this park both in the morning and the evening. SOM had carried a full page article with photos under the title Newly “Developed” Cheluvamba Park Crying for Immediate Attention on June 29, 2019. This article had highlighted the pathetic conditions existing in this park “after its Development” only four years ago. It speaks volumes on the professional competence and moral calibre of the MCC staff who carried out these works.

The problems at present are caused by several factors. First, there is improper drainage all along the walk path leading to soil erosion causing uneven surface at several places. Second, due to poor  quality of soil used and the constant soil erosion stones and pebbles are protruding. Third, in some places due to very soft soil and improper drainage water logging occurs during rainy season making these spots slippery.  

Paving the path with bricks or concrete tiles will only be injurious to the walkers due to its hard surface. Properly laid out path with good quality soil with a top layer of river sand would be sufficient. This should be carried out after providing for proper drainage on the either sides of the walk path in keeping with the contours of the surroundings.

Further, the second walk path in the inner circle of this park is already paved with interlocking blocks. This ‘development’ was carried out despite opposition from walkers. And due to its hard surface very few people use this track.

It is high time that this park visited by thousands of citizens of all ages [senior citizens are a very large group among them] is maintained properly. Officers in charge of this park should be made responsible to ensure this.

– R. Chandra Prakash, Gokulam III Stage, 10.10.2019

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