KOCHI: The Ernakulam Children’s Park will soon be remodelled and upgraded to international standards with modern amenities. The state cabinet has given its nod for the renovation plan submitted by the Tourism Department. The expected cost of renovation is estimated to be Rs 4.97 crore and the Tourism Department will put in Rs 4 crore. The remaining amount will be met through Hibi Eden’s MLA fund. “The government closely assessed the project proposal submitted by the Tourism Department.
The administrative sanction has been accorded to the Rs 4.97 crore project for which the Tourism Department will provide Rs 4 crore. The amount will be given from the up-gradation and creation of infrastructure and amenities plan. The work should be completed within 18 months,” said the Government Order.
Ernakulam Children’s Park, which is located at Marine Drive, is one of the popular choices of families in the city. The park is accessed through the Marine Drive Walkway. Though most of the rides and benches in the park are now in a dilapidated condition, families still prefer to come here since there are not many open spaces in the city.
“When the Tourism Minister came here for the inauguration of the second phase of the Queen’s Walkway, we brought to his notice the bad state of the park. Later, after convening a meeting with the District Collector K Mohammed Y Safeerullah, it was decided to submit a proposal prepared by KEL for the renovation of the park,” said Hibi Eden MLA.
Entrance
As per the proposal, the location of the entrance and exit including ticket counters will be changed. The new design will give the entrance more prominence and make it attractive. The compound wall and grills facing towards the main road will be painted. Damaged pavements will be reconstructed with interlocking tiles. Attractive sign boards will be installed for the convenience of the visitors.
Lighting
The efficiency of the lighting system will be improved. Seating facility including benches will be set up. All toys and rides will be replaced and pedal cars and jeeps for children will be deployed. The existing pool will be renovated and beautification activities will be carried in and around the pool. Bumper boats will be provided along with the replacement plumbing works. The areas to be landscaped will be filled with buffalo grass. Small seats and huts will be provided in the landscaped area. The existing musical fountain and pavilion will be transformed into a water slide complex. A bumper car Play Station and provisions for adventurous rides like rock climbing, tunnel rides, and rope net rides will also be made. The renovation plan also includes boundary walls, fencing, office buildings, cafeteria and toilet blocks.