BANGALORE: Today, the New Tippasandra Ward is considered as a major achievement in the development of the city wards. However, a closer look will reveal innumerable civic issues, of which, Major Sylvester Rajesh Ratnam Park under Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) situated in third stage, fourth cross, is a prima facie case of negligence in this ward.
The park was built in memory of Major Sylvester Rajesh Ratnam who lost his life on August 2, 2002 during ‘Operation Parakram’ in Kashmir. He belonged to the 21st battalion of the Jat Regiment. It was inaugurated by MLA S Raghu, amidst huge fanfare and euphoria, however, with the passage of time, the authorities forgot about its existence.
From broken benches to lack of greenery, the list of unsolved problems are endless. R. Rajagopal, a retired Major and a resident of the locality pointed out to City Express, “Except two benches, all other benches are broken long back and nobody has cared to arrange for the replacement. Even the entrance gate is broken, making entry and exit a big nuisance for elderly people like us.”
He further added, “The BBMP push carts that are used to collect garbage are also parked in front of the park, which emanates a foul smell. It is impossible to walk without carrying a handkerchiefs.” Voicing similar opinion, Das, a resident said, “The person in charge of switching the street lights deliberately switches it on, only after 7-7.30 pm so that some people can indulge in immoral and illegal activities.”
When City Express contacted the Chairman of Standing Committee (Horticulture), Anjanappa, he said, “This is the first time I am being informed about the situation in Major Sylvester Rajesh Ratnam park. I will talk to the executive engineer in charge for that area. I assure that immediate action will be plan out.”
However, the area corporator Sumithra was unavailable for any comments for reasons best known to her.