Nisarg Udyan – a scenic park, overlooking placid Powai Lake, has all the ingredients to boost tourism. But its poor upkeep has played the spoil sport …

 

Nisarg Udyan is poorly maintained. All the recreational tools like seesaw and other amusements for children are in disrepair.A few years ago the park has been inaugurated by a seasoned politico. Thereafter it remains a neglected lot.In the absence of proper attendance and upkeep many plants have died and some shriveled with green grass receded to a nonexistent level.It was earlier used by joggers in the early morning and evening, but their numbers have dwindled now.

 

‘The anti-social elements have made the area as their hideouts. Even the love birds flock there that make the sight utterly revolting,’ said Vijay Makwana, a resident of Powai who earlier used to visit the park but now has finally stopped going there. ‘Even one can witness the ugly sight of prostitutes luring their customers,’ he lamented. ‘And the irony is that this is happening just under the nose of local police.’

However, the Powai police while brushing aside this said, ‘I’m listening this first time from you. There has been no complaint against such irregularities,’ the obstreperous police official said.

 

The picturesque location has made this garden a popular site to visit by youths and even tourists and could be a great revenue earner – boosting sales of stalls and canteens nearby.The BMC’s horticulture department is responsible for its maintenance. But contrary to expectation the department is ignoring the park at exchequer’s cost. The civic body’s PRO, when apprised of this assured to take the issue to the concerned department.‘The park’s upkeep is of course the BMC’s responsibility, but as far as the anti-socials are concerned, it is the police who should be consulted,’ he said.