Public parks of Bhubaneswar wear Fani's besmirching footprints

Bhubaneswar: Cyclone Fani has not even spared major parks located in the smart city of Bhubaneswar leaving besmirching footprints on their aesthetic panorama.

Jaydev Vatika, Forest park, IG Park and Ekamrakanan are among the worst affected where the damages caused are estimated to be in crores of rupees. As a result of which, most of the parks have been closed for an indefinite period.

Jaydev Vatika has been ravaged with its artificial river, picnic spots, light poles and rest shades completely damaged. It is estimated that it will take 6 to 7 months for the place to be restored completely. The temporary closure of the park is expected to affect revenue generation which was around Rs 2 crore last year.

"Nearly 70 per cent of the park has suffered damages. Most of the 'pindis' have been completely damaged.  A new view tower and other property have also suffered severe damages. Our first work is to clear the road inside the park so that we can carry out restoration," said sub-divisional manager of Jaydev Vatika, Ashok Kumar Kar.

Situated in the heart of the capital city, Biju Patnaik Forest Park has also been severely affected by the cyclone. The park which is frequently visited by morning walkers and children is now left with uprooted trees and damaged amenities which had even survived Hudhud and Phailin cyclones. The situation has become so worse that entry of visitors has been stopped completely.

"This park has suffered severe damages. Nearly, 75% trees have been damaged and it seems like it will take a long time to restore things   in place," said Biranchi Narayan Behera, a security guard deployed at park.

Similarly, the situation is no different at Indira Gandhi Park which has been battered by cyclone Fani. Considered to be one of the most sought-after places of beauty in Bhubaneswar, the park has been temporarily closed. Fani has also inflicted severe damages to Ekamrakanan Park.