Gandhi Maidan to get makeover with more greenery and cleanliness: Divisional commissioner
Patna: Divisional commissioner Chandrashekhar Singh on Monday chaired a crucial meeting with officials of several departments, including DM Thiyagarajan SM and Traffic SP Aprajit Lohan, to discuss a comprehensive beautification and infrastructure development plan for the Gandhi Maidan.
The Gandhi Maidan, which often faced criticism for poor maintenance, was acknowledged in the meeting with divisional commissioner instructing a three-member committee under additional district magistrate (law & order) to conduct regular inspection and consultations with stakeholders. Representatives from the forest, building construction, and municipal departments were also present.
The meeting also decided to bring some immediate changes, including rationalizing commercial activities inside the Maidan to reduce damage to its surface.
Over 10-15 coaching centres and fitness trainers currently use the ground for physical training, which has led to grass depletion and dug-up patches. "Officials have been instructed to find alternate training zones nearby without affecting the student interests," said Singh.
He further said that in a bid to restore its green cover, the forest department would plant saplings of ornamental and medicinal trees between the boundary wall and the walkway, with a five-year maintenance plan.
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"Patna district mineral foundation will provide funds for pollution control that will be used to install sprinklers to control dust, which has become a major concern for regular visitors," Singh said.
Singh said that public amenities were also being upgraded. Existing green toilets would be maintained regularly by the municipal corporation, while two more RO drinking water units would be added apart from the two existing ones near Gates 1 and 5.
"Desilting and regular cleaning of drains are to take place with the building construction department being instructed to repair and cover the drains where necessary," he added.
Officials also discussed maintenance of open gyms, children's parks, and platforms for karate and yoga, directing concerned departments to ensure cleanliness and functionality. Footpaths around the Maidan will be repaired and fitted with iron grills for both safety and aesthetics.
Security will be tightened with regular patrolling, and guards will be deployed at all entry gates in three shifts. Smart City monitoring systems, which already track 128 CCTV cameras around the Maidan and its vicinity, will be strengthened, with additional installations as needed. Singh said, "Patna Traffic Police will also enhance regulation around the Maidan to ensure smooth vehicular movement and pedestrian safety.
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In a stern move, the commissioner ordered the immediate removal of the food court currently set up inside the ground near Gate 4. "A designated space has already been allocated for such activity," he said. Lighting infrastructure around the Maidan, including high-mast poles, decorative lights, and streetlights, will be repaired and maintained to ensure proper visibility and safety after dark.
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