Bokaro City Park Neglect: Residents Slam BSL, Renovation Plans Underway

Bokaro: For years, City Park has been the go-to spot for Bokaro residents to soak in the winter sun and make merry during New Year’s Eve. This year, however, unkempt environs of the park are acting as a deterrent for revelers and picnickers. Once known for its lush greenery, boating facilities and vibrant attractions, the park now stands as a symbol of neglect. Residents have slammed the Bokaro Steel Limited (BSL) for lack of maintenance.The park’s only pond, which was earlier a major attraction due to its boating facility, is now choked with thick layers of weeds. Adding to the disappointment, the musical fountain, another crowd-puller, has been lying deserted for months. “City Park used to be our favourite weekend spot. Children loved boating and the fountain shows. Now, the pond looks like a marsh and there is nothing exciting left,” said Ramesh Kumar, a local resident who frequents the park with his family. Another resident, Sunita Devi, said, “We feel embarrassed when relatives from outside Bokaro visit and see the poor condition of such a prime location.”Strategically located in the middle of the town with entry gates on three sides, City Park has long been considered Bokaro’s most popular park. It’s rose garden, artificial islands and floating restaurant once attracted visitors in large numbers. The park nursery, which earlier supplied flowers to residents at affordable rates, has also been shut.BSL’s chief of communication, Manikant Dhan, said the BSL is planning major renovations in the park. “BSL is all set to outsource City Park to private parties for its comprehensive development, operation and maintenance. An expression of interest (EOI) has floated,” he said.