The Nehru Children Park in the Balukhad area of Margherita, once a cherished recreational spot for children and families, now stands as a symbol of administrative neglect. Inaugurated in 2010 with much public excitement and government backing, the park has steadily deteriorated, leaving residents disillusioned and angry.
A Space Once Full of Joy
The park, built to promote outdoor activity and create a safe space for children, was once a pride of the Margherita subdivision in Assam’s Tinsukia district. Swings, slides, flower beds, and walkways made it a go-to spot for families every evening.
It was named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who was known for his fondness for children. For years, it served its purpose, bringing laughter, movement, and greenery into the daily lives of hundreds of local kids.
Rapid Decline Over the Years
However, more than a decade later, the Nehru Children Park tells a different story. Rusted play equipment, broken benches, overgrown grass, and a dried-up water body greet the few visitors who still wander in out of nostalgia. The once-lively space now resembles a ghost park.
Local resident Priyanka Das, a schoolteacher and mother of two, said, “This park was our children’s favorite place. Now it’s not even safe. We don’t know why the authorities let it decay.”
Blame on Authorities and Lack of Maintenance
Residents blame the Margherita Municipal Board and the local administration for failing to maintain the park despite repeated requests. They allege that no major renovation work has been carried out in the last five years, and funds, if allocated, have not translated into any visible improvement.
“The lights don’t work. The security guard is gone. Even the boundary wall has crumbled in places. It has become a haven for anti-social elements after sunset,” said resident Abdul Rahman, who lives nearby.
Local NGOs have also raised concerns about the park being a missed opportunity to promote public health and child development.
Misuse of Public Resources?
Citizens allege that the funds sanctioned under the urban development schemes for green spaces have not been utilized properly. According to a 2022 report by the Tinsukia district administration, around ₹10 lakh was allotted for minor repairs and maintenance, but there is little on the ground to show for it.
This has sparked anger and suspicion among residents, with some demanding a Right to Information (RTI) probe to track the utilization of funds over the last five years.
Voices of Protest Growing
Local youth groups and senior citizens recently organized a sit-in protest near the park entrance demanding its immediate restoration. They submitted a memorandum to the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) of Margherita, requesting urgent intervention.
A public petition is also being circulated online, urging the Assam government to include the park in its green rejuvenation schemes like Mission Amrit Sarovar and smart town planning initiatives.
Hope for Revival?
When contacted, a Margherita Municipal Board official said, “We are aware of the situation. A proposal has been sent for the park’s facelift under the next urban beautification budget.” However, no specific timeline was shared.
With rising public pressure, the administration may finally be compelled to act. But for now, Nehru Children Park remains a decaying memory of a once-cherished promise.
Call to Action
Locals urge the state government and the Tinsukia district administration to inspect the site and restore the park for public use. Citizens also request NGOs and youth clubs to adopt the park under public-private partnership models to ensure regular upkeep.
Learn how public spaces improve child development on UNICEF’s official site.