Once a symbol of lush greenery and cultural heritage, the Public Gardens in Nampally has fallen into a state of disrepair, leaving regular visitors frustrated. Walkers have raised multiple concerns, pointing out broken benches, rusted swings, overgrown weeds, and a lack of basic amenities like dustbins and washrooms.
“There are 16 watchmen here, but none are visible,” said Sohanlal Kadel, a visitor for 35 years. “As a result, people park their vehicles very close to the lawn area.
We come for fresh air, but here we have vehicles driving through the garden.” Kadel also highlighted the garden’s cleanliness issues. “There are heaps of garbage in the heart of the garden, and children have to play near the trash because there’s no other space.”
With over 500 walkers frequenting the park daily, its deteriorating condition has become a growing concern. Mohanlal Shah, president of the Public Garden Morning Walkers Association, pointed to the lack of proper facilities.
“There’s only one washroom, and it’s been locked for months. The fountain hasn’t worked in ages, and the swings and benches are rusted and broken. This park is over 150 years old. Is this the treatment it deserves?”
Despite multiple complaints from the walkers, no action has been taken to address these issues.
The walkers’ concerns come just a week after the Telangana high court directed the state govt to preserve the greenery and heritage of Public Gardens, specifically prohibiting the use of the space for official functions or office buildings. However, walkers allege that the govt continues to ignore these orders, exacerbating the damage to the garden’s landscape and heritage structures.
“In defiance of the court’s orders, the state govt continues to host events here, repeatedly digging up the central lawn to set up tents for dignitaries,” said 93-year-old Ghulam Yazdani, a long-time visitor
Mohammed Abid Ali, an advocate for garden’s preservation, criticized the govt for failing to use alternative venues like Parade Grounds, LB Stadium, Uppal or Gachibowli Stadium. “Why target Public Gardens when other venues are available for such functions? ,” he emphasized.
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