They chip green off Kowdiar park

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The construction activities being undertaken as part of renovation of Kowdiar Park have annoyed frequent visitors who feel lack of planning was ruining the green space.

The haphazard concrete structures and tiles are invading the green space. The entire renovation work is being carried out at a cost of Rs 40 lakh. While the corporation is in charge of the renovation, it is alleged that works are not being properly monitored by the authorities.

"Renovation projects are good but these have to be carried out without damaging the original place," said Mani a retired electricity engineer who is also a frequent visitor to the park. George Philip and his friends Titus John and Dennis Varghese who were enjoying an evening stroll in the park said that the renovation works were not up to the expectations of the people. "Instead of constructing entrance gate or laying tiles, they should have put up more benches, covered seating areas, toilets and drinking water," said Mr Varghese.

The elderly people said they would have preferred a more green and Eco friendly Park. "Instead of interlocking tiles, they should have used sand to make it more eco friendly. The interlocks prevent water from seeping into the soil and it would result in flooding of the park during rains," said a regular at the park.

The Thiruvanathapuram, corporation is in charge of the renovation project and they are the one who is also funding the project. "The tiles were laid as part of beautification of the park. Earlier, we had grass here which was not maintained properly. Apart from construction work, our focus is also in maintaining the green cover in the park. Fresh carpet of grass is being grown," said Kawdiar councillor Muraleedharan.

Another major problem faced in the park is the lack of proper waste management. The waste paper cups and plates are littered all over the place after functions. "Installation of a waste bin and periodic cleaning of the bin is the only solution," said Mani. Some suggested that a proper lighting and glass fencing should be arranged for Vivekananda statue  to prevent  corrosion.