Paravur GLPS to host autism park in the district

A first of its kind by the Kerala Government, Finance Minister T M Thomas Issac had allocated funds during the annual budget 2017-18 for the development of autism parks.
Paravur GLPS to host autism park in the district

KOCHI: Paravur GLPS has been chosen as the venue in the district for the construction of autism park in the state. A first of its kind by the Kerala Government, Finance Minister T M Thomas Issac had allocated funds during the annual budget 2017-18 for the development of autism parks. Another Rs 3 crore was added to the budget this year, thereby enabling sufficient funds for such parks, each of which requires Rs 50 lakh.

“Earlier, we had planned to build 20 autism parks, albeit, we’ve reduced the number to 14, one in each district,” said K V Mohankumar, director of Public Education. 
To acknowledge and embrace differently-abled children, the initiative to build parks exclusive to autistic children, is highly applauded. “The model plan for the parks was presented by the students and teachers of College of Engineering, Thiruvananthapuram. Construction of the parks would be undertaken by the Public Works Department,” said Jessy Jospeh, ADPI. 

The autistic parks would mostly be built on lands acquired by schools, Mohankumar informed. “We would require 2,000 sq feet on 20 cent of land for the parks to be built, replete with extra facilities and a garden. Medical facilities would be given prior importance along with ample space for mobility,” he said. Nevertheless, if there exists a dearth of land, the respective buildings would be two-storeyed. 

The plan is to accommodate 20-25 children in each park. “The lessened number is to ensure that each child receives individual attention,” Mohankumar said. As per data provided, there are 1,691 children exhibiting autistic traits between the age of 8 and 12, in the state. Jessy said despite the existence of autism centres in the city, the move by the General Education department was a first.

The Samrakshana Yajnam officials have visited the venue at Kollam and preliminary work would commence immediately, following which, other districts would follow suit. Currently, there are minor glitches at the land undertaken at Paravur GLPS but we will sort the differences sooner,” she added.

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