Patna: Physical training activities for competitive examinations have been banned at Patna’s historic Gandhi Maidan after officials said sustained use by coaching institutes and trainers had caused significant damage to the grounds.
The directive was issued on Tuesday by the divisional commissioner, Animesh Kumar Parashar, who is also chair of the Shri Krishna Memorial Development Committee, following a review of the management, beautification and development works at the site.
Officials said that between 10 and 15 coaching institutes and physical trainers had been conducting daily activities such as long jump, high jump and running drills at Gandhi Maidan for students preparing for competitive examinations. According to the administration, these activities have led to the destruction of grass cover and the formation of potholes, causing inconvenience to the general public who use the Maidan for recreation and events.
The commissioner said multiple complaints had been received from individuals and organisations regarding the deteriorating condition of the grounds. “To keep Gandhi Maidan green and accessible to all, it has become necessary to stop such physical training activities,” he said, adding that the ban would take effect immediately.
Officials have been instructed to ensure strict compliance, and legal action will be taken against instructors or institutes found violating the order.
While announcing the ban, Parashar said alternative locations were available nearby for students to continue their physical training. He pointed to areas along the Ganga river, including ghats at Digha, the Collectorate Ghat and other riverfront locations, which he described as having a pleasant environment and better air quality. Students, he said, could use these sites without causing damage to public green spaces.
The review meeting also focused on traffic management and anti-encroachment measures in Patna’s urban areas, particularly around Gandhi Maidan. The commissioner said traffic congestion and accidents were often caused by private and government buses, as well as other commercial vehicles, failing to stop at designated stands and instead picking up passengers at unauthorised locations.
Calling this practice unacceptable, he directed the district transport officer to identify such vehicles and initiate action, including the cancellation of permits. Legal proceedings will also be launched against drivers and owners who violate the rules, he said.
Parashar further instructed officials to accelerate beautification and development work at Gandhi Maidan, including repairing walking tracks around the perimeter and planting additional greenery. Regular police patrols will be conducted to maintain order and prevent violations.
Emphasising accountability, the commissioner said effective management and administration of Gandhi Maidan would require constant vigilance from all stakeholders, with strict adherence to financial norms and prescribed procedures.
