Patna: In a major initiative aimed at promoting health, fitness, and environmental sustainability, 142 parks are set to be developed across all districts of the state by December. The move is expected to benefit more than 3 lakh residents daily, offering them dedicated spaces for morning walks, evening strolls, and recreational activities.
According to officials, the parks will be open to the public from 5:30 am to 7 pm, providing citizens with ample time to engage in physical activities and enjoy nature. In Patna alone, maintenance work on 111 parks has already been completed, while development efforts are ongoing in the remaining 31 parks.
Open Gyms and Jogging Tracks for Fitness Enthusiasts
Keeping public health as a priority, the parks will feature jogging tracks and open gyms, with separate gym facilities for men and women. Open gyms will be established in parks that are at least half an acre in size, encouraging fitness routines in an open, natural environment.
“This initiative will not only create recreational spaces but also promote a culture of health and fitness among the people,” an official said.
Green Spaces to Cover 80 Percent of Park Areas
To ensure a cleaner and greener environment, officials have mandated that 80 percent of the total area in each park will be reserved for green cover. The landscaping plan includes planting over 250 species of trees, such as banyan, peepal, neem, Ashoka, sheesham, and mango, not just within the parks but also along the city roads.
“This plantation drive will help in improving air quality, reducing urban heat, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of urban areas,” the official added.
Work Progress in Other Districts
In addition to Patna, approximately 110 parks across 37 other districts are undergoing maintenance and development. Authorities are working on a tight schedule to ensure that all parks are ready for public use by the end of this year.
The initiative is being seen as a crucial step towards creating healthier cities, offering urban residents a much-needed respite from the congestion and pollution of daily life.
As urbanization continues to rise, these green lungs will not only offer recreation but also contribute significantly to improving the quality of life for citizens across the state.
