The battle for public parks

The battle for public parks

Hyderabad, the second largest city in Sindh, is often called the “City of Birds and Winds”. The city is known for its vibrant culture and combines tradition and modernity. However, despite being a major urban center, Hyderabad suffers from a lack of quality public parks and recreational spaces.

Although Hyderabad is called a “modern village,” this title remains largely symbolic. The city struggles to provide the basic amenities that characterize urban life, with one of the most notable shortcomings being the lack of sufficient public parks. These green spaces are essential for the well-being of the community and the environment.

Considering the size of the city, you would expect Hyderabad to have many well-maintained parks. Unfortunately, the reality is different. The city has only a few parks, and even those suffer from poor maintenance and limited facilities.

Raanii Bagh, one of the few public parks, charges an entry fee of Rs 50. Despite this fee, the park lacks basic amenities such as jogging and walking trails, making it less attractive to those looking for exercise and relaxation.

Moreover, Askari Park, which is managed by the Cantt Board, does not have adequate recreational facilities, making the park limited for families and individuals seeking relaxation.

In Qasimabad taluka, the situation is particularly dire. This densely populated area, which serves as a residential and commercial hub, is severely lacking in public parks and recreational spaces. The absence of well-equipped parks with jogging and walking tracks forces residents to improvise. One such makeshift space is the Eid Gah, a ground primarily meant for religious gatherings. Although not officially designated as a park, it has become a makeshift area for exercise and relaxation.

While facilities like the Gymkhana and Hyderabad Club offer parks, jogging tracks and other recreational facilities, their memberships are prohibitively expensive. Poor and middle class residents cannot afford access

However, conditions at Eid Gah are far from ideal. There are no proper walking paths and people are forced to walk on tiled and marble surfaces, which are not suitable for regular exercise and can pose significant risks of injury. During peak hours, the area becomes overcrowded, further reducing its usefulness as a safe and pleasant space for walking or jogging.

This lack of good parks in Qasimabad reflects a broader neglect by local authorities. Despite the growing need of residents for recreational spaces, the government has not taken substantial steps to develop new parks or improve existing ones. The lack of greenery and open spaces negatively impacts the quality of life, contributing to increased stress levels and a lack of communal interaction among residents.

While facilities like the Gymkhana and Hyderabad Club offer parks, jogging tracks and other recreational facilities, their memberships are prohibitively expensive. Poor and middle-class residents cannot afford to join these clubs, thus depriving them of access to these well-maintained spaces.

The older parts of the city are not much better off. In Latifabad tehsil there are several public parks, but they are in poor condition. Parks like Baby Afza Park, Afzaal Ground and Bagh-e-Qasim lack basic infrastructure and maintenance. Grass is scarce and amenities are almost non-existent. The Municipal Corporation’s lack of interest in developing and maintaining these green spaces exacerbates the problem.

Public parks are more than just recreational areas; they are vital to the health and well-being of the community. Parks provide space for physical activity, social interaction, and a break from the urban environment. They contribute to mental health, reduce pollution, and improve the overall quality of life.

The neglect of parks in Hyderabad is a major omission by the government. As the second largest city in Sindh, Hyderabad should be a model for urban planning and public amenities. Instead, it highlights a broader problem of inadequate public infrastructure in the region.

Despite the current state of parks in Hyderabad, there is immense potential for improvement. A concerted effort by the government and community stakeholders could transform these neglected spaces into thriving public parks. This would require investment in infrastructure, including jogging tracks, playgrounds, and seating areas. Community involvement is also crucial, with locals being involved in the planning and maintenance of parks to ensure they meet the needs of residents. Adopting eco-friendly practices in the maintenance of parks would promote biodiversity and ecological health.

The government must recognize the importance of parks in urban environments and take immediate steps to address Hyderabad’s shortcomings. Providing sufficient public parks is not just a matter of aesthetics; it is essential for public health and urban life. Hyderabad residents must advocate for better facilities and hold authorities accountable for the development and maintenance of public parks.

In conclusion, Hyderabad’s status as the second largest city in Sindh comes with the responsibility of providing its citizens with basic amenities, including well-maintained public parks. Meeting this need will not only improve the quality of life of its residents but also set a positive example for other cities in the region. The time for action is now and Hyderabad’s green spaces depend on it.