Neglected parks to turn into green lungs for residents

Hubballi: In a bid to improve green cover in the twin cities, the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has drawn up a plan to rejuvenate neglected parks and gardens.As part of the initiative, the civic body has proposed planting over one lakh saplings across various open spaces that have remained undeveloped for years. The move is expected to transform barren areas into green zones, benefiting residents, improving the urban environment, and enhancing the overall visual appeal of the city.The project will be implemented with the support and participation of non-governmental organisations, which will play a key role in plantation and maintenance activities. The HDMC has approached several NGOs and invited them to partner in reviving these parks. Their involvement is expected to ensure better upkeep, regular monitoring, and long-term sustainability of the saplings. The collaboration reflects a practical, community-driven approach to urban development.Planting saplings in neglected parks is expected to help reduce pollution, improve air quality, provide shade, support biodiversity, and create pleasant public spaces for walking, recreation, and relaxation. The initiative also underlines the importance of shared responsibility in city development, with the municipal corporation handling planning and coordination while NGOs contribute expertise, manpower, and commitment to maintenance. If implemented effectively, the project could serve as a model for urban greening and civic participation.Shashank, head of the water programme at Bengaluru-based SayTrees Environmental Trust, said a memorandum of understanding has already been signed with the HDMC. He said a survey is currently underway to assess the number of saplings to be planted and other requirements. "Once the survey is completed, SayTrees will begin planting one lakh saplings in the undeveloped parks and gardens," he added.HDMC commissioner Rudresh Ghali said SayTrees has already begun surveying neglected parks. He said the NGO will operate and maintain the parks for three years, which will include protecting saplings and trees, watering, and other maintenance activities.According to sources, Hubballi-Dharwad has 722 parks spread across 82 wards. Of these, 135 parks are fully developed, 350 are partially developed, while as many as 237 parks remain neglected.