The parched lawns of Joggers Park in Kalyani Nagar have become a cause for concern among residents, prompting urgent appeals for a swift solution to address the water scarcity plaguing the beloved community space.
Janhavi Patankar, a resident of Kalyani Nagar, expressed her dismay over the situation, highlighting the prolonged absence of water for the park’s lawns. She cited a broken pipeline carrying recycled water from Koregaon Park as the root cause of the issue, exacerbated by ongoing bridge construction work. Patankar emphasized the significance of Joggers Park as a popular recreational spot for residents, particularly senior citizens, who frequent the area for daily walks.
Concerns regarding the deteriorating condition of the lawns have been echoed by members of Team Swachh Kalyaninagar (TSKN), an active community group dedicated to promoting cleanliness and civic engagement in the area. With public movement increasing substantially in Kalyani Nagar since July 2021, the dry and cracked lawns have become a stark contrast to the once lush and well-maintained landscape.
Sandeep Chavan, representing the PMC Tree Department, shed light on the pipeline rupture that disrupted the supply of treated water to Joggers Park. He acknowledged the efforts of Kalyani Nagar residents in advocating for the utilization of treated water over 15 years ago, underscoring the community’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Sangram Kanmahale, an official from the PMC Garden Department in Kalyani Nagar, provided insights into the efforts to rectify the water supply issue. He explained that the interruption in water supply was due to the cleaning and maintenance of water tanks at the Bhairoba Pumping Station in Koregaon Park. Assuring residents of imminent relief, Kanmahale confirmed that regular water supply to the park would resume promptly following the completion of maintenance activities.
As residents await the restoration of water supply to rejuvenate the withered lawns of Joggers Park, their collective efforts and vigilant advocacy underscore the importance of community engagement in addressing local challenges and ensuring the well-being of public spaces.
