Civic body to develop five parks in Madurai

Madurai: Madurai Corporation is mulling over sending a proposal to AMRUT (Atal mission for rejuvenation and urban transformation) for developing parks in the city on a priority basis.
The corporation has identified five parks in Vilangudi, Ellis Nagar, Durai Sami Nagar, Jay Nagar and Anaiyur for development after studying the settlements in these areas.
Chembarathi Nagar near Vilangudi was chosen for its proximity to NH49. "With many from the upper middle income group and other middle class groups settled near Chembarathi Nagar, we thought of constructing a park there. Also, proximity to the highway will attract more people," said a corporation consultant.
At Ellis Nagar, there are a large number of housing board buildings where government officials and others reside. The corporation plans to construct a park at Ellis Nagar specially for government officials. "Similarly, at Durai Sami Nagar, we have identified a small open space where middle income groups and other association members reside. We plan to construct a small park there," added the corporation consultant.
After the city was mapped recently to identify areas where parks can come up, the consultants shortlisted 20 to 25 spots. In Durai Sami Nagar and Anaiyur, there is scope for developing more parks.
In Anaiyur, a larger space is available. Hence, the corporation plans to create a landscaped area that can be used to conduct small functions.
Corporation officials expect the public to maintain these parks once they were developed.
Sources from the corporation said developing these parks is expected to cost around 2 crores. "Recently, a meeting was conducted at the corporation with the consultants on developing parks in the city. Soon a proposal will be sent to AMRUT in these regard," said assistant engineer of Madurai Corporation N Sevval.