Nothing ‘special’ about this park,civic body gapes in ‘dark’

A visit to the site adjoining the Institute for the Blind,Sector 26,tells a different story. The first hindrance would be the entry to the under-construction park,which is shaped like a maze,making it difficult for the visually impaired to enter. A civic official responds: “The entrance has been built to prevent animals from entering.”

The initial proposal had provisions for an audio guiding system. Railings along the flower beds with names of flowers in Braille were to be put up,but they are nowhere to be seen.

Dr A P Sanwaria,one of the councillors who went on the tour,says,“The park is not being built according to the concept suggested. Nearly Rs 15 lakh are being spent on it. But it is no different from other parks.”

“We suggested an audio guiding system to welcome the visitors. As visually impaired persons walk along the railings,they would know where they are moving ,” he adds. The under-construction park will make use of the sense of touch,smell and taste. Plants like tulsi that can be tested will find a place. Instead of thorny plants,there will be smaller trees. An official of the Municipal Corporation says the park that was initially suggested was spread over two acres. “We are trying to provide the facilities that are possible in half an acre. A rain shelter and music arrangements will be provided,” he says.