Khammam: Development of urban parks goes at faster pace

Khammam: After the formation of Telangana, the State government has developed parks in across the State and as part of it, the development of urban parks is going on at a faster pace in erstwhile Khammam district. The government has allotted more funds for the development of parks in the both districts of the Khammam and Bhadradri-Kothagudem. As a result, several parks have been developed and were brought into use allowing the public to relax in the lap of nature. Velugumatla Urban Forest Park and Lakaram Tank Bund in Khamamam and Urban Forest Park at Kothagudem have been attracting the people in large numbers.

The Velugumatla Forest Park was inaugurated on August 2019 and here the plantation of several plant varieties was taken up in about 135 acres. It also a place for in-situ biodiversity conservation. The park has a space for adventure sports, rope walk for children and elders as well, in addition to covered space for yoga and meditation practice. The park has been developed through funds from the Central and the State governments. District Collector RV Karnan has taken a special interest in establishing the said park in the Khammam town.

One more attraction in the Velugumatla Forest Park is Miyawaki forest, a Japanese method of tree plantation for growing saplings, developed on about 1.23 acres land. Lakaram Tank, once a water body filled with waste and neglected for decades though its presence of the tank was traced back to Kakatiya era, is now a scenic tourism spot with public from different places visiting to relax.

A beautiful bund and park has been developed around the tank located in the heart of Khammam city under Mission Kakatiya phase one with an expenditure of Rs 25 crore. It was opened for public in February 2018. The circular shaped bund of around 2.6 kilometres length, walking track, open gym, boating and a selfie-point are the attractions here. Lakaram tank bund is now location for recreational and cultural activities.

Developed on about 260 acres land, the Kothagudem Central Park located in between Kothagudem and Palvoncha towns was brought into use two in December 2017. There are 60 varieties medical plants being grown here. Walking track, open gym, tree house, play area for children are provided here.

Khammam Mayor Dr Papalal, speaking to The Hans India, said that Rs 30 crore was spent for the development of Lakaram tank bund. And for increasing the green cover, the Khammam Municipal Corporation has developed small parks at five main junctions in the town. "The government is giving a big push for increasing the green cover through parks. Velugumatla Forest Park is the main project taken up by the government in the interest of Khammam citizens," the Mayor added.

"Velugumatla Forest Park and Lakaram Tank Bund are both assets of Khammam city in terms of urban lung space. Thanks to the State government the locals can now have a pleasant weekends and family parties. The facilities are ample at both the parks," said M Vinay Kumar, a resident of Khammam.

"The Central Park in Kothagudem has also become a hub for fitness enthusiasts in the town. It is a great place to visit on any day or time as it consists of lush green cover spread on vast space. If a deer park developed here, it will become even more attractive," said David, a resident of Kothagudem.