Damaged fitness equipment, broken swings and garbage raise questions over maintenance and use of public funds
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Berhampur, Aug. 11 (UDN): Public parks and open gyms developed in different parts of Berhampur city with the aim of promoting fitness and providing recreational spaces for residents are now struggling with neglect and poor maintenance.
Several facilities across the city have reportedly suffered damage, while garbage and overgrown surroundings have made some of the parks difficult to use. Residents have raised concerns over the deterioration of assets created with public money and demanded immediate steps for their restoration.
More than 10 open gyms have reportedly been installed at various locations in Berhampur. However, residents claim that some of the equipment is damaged or missing, while waste has accumulated around the remaining fitness facilities.
Open gyms and parks near Aga Sahi Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), Panchadev Temple, Anand Nagar and the beginning of Haridakhandi Sahi are among the locations where residents have flagged maintenance issues.
Children’s Playgrounds Also in Poor Shape
The condition of some children’s playgrounds has added to the concern.
Playgrounds at Subham Vihar and Suraj Vihar, reportedly developed at a cost of around ₹20 lakh, are allegedly in a state of disrepair. Broken swings, damaged structures and waterlogging have affected the usability of the facilities.
Residents also alleged that some structures have sunk due to construction-related problems. In the absence of proper upkeep, cattle and buffaloes are reportedly entering the premises, further affecting the condition of the playgrounds.
A children’s park at Tulasinagar has also reportedly faced similar maintenance problems.
Residents Seek Repairs, Better Planning
Locals have questioned whether adequate planning and regular maintenance were carried out after the facilities were established. Some residents have suggested relocating fitness equipment from unsuitable roadside locations to larger parks where it can be used safely and maintained properly.
They have also urged the civic authorities to ensure regular cleaning, repairs and security around the facilities so that the infrastructure does not become a waste of public money.
BeMC Promises Maintenance Measures
Responding to the concerns, Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BeMC) Commissioner A Sasya Reddy said the civic body has received complaints regarding the condition of several parks and has started maintenance work at multiple locations.
The Commissioner said steps would also be taken to protect roadside gyms and parks located in smaller spaces.
“If open gyms are being misused, barricading will be installed wherever necessary. We are also planning an annual maintenance tender to regularly maintain the parks and gym equipment and replace damaged items,” the Commissioner said.
The proposed maintenance mechanism could provide a more permanent solution to recurring problems and help ensure that public recreational facilities remain usable for residents.
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