The United Nations Park, nestled in the Panchlaish Residential Area of Chattogram, is poised to welcome visitors once again on January 3, 2025, following an extensive renovation. This revitalization project, executed by the Public Works Department (PWD) at a cost of Tk12.65 crore, promises to restore the park’s former glory.
Kamrul Hasan Khan, the executive engineer for PWD Chattogram Region Circle-1, announced that a ceremonial reopening will precede public access on the specified date, with ongoing maintenance to be managed by the department.
During a recent inspection, the park was found to be transformed, featuring lush green grass, diverse flower species, and ornamental trees. Well-structured walkways and seating arrangements are set to enhance the visitor experience, while a modern fountain serves as a stunning centerpiece. The park also boasts horizontal bars and metal pergolas, encouraging play and exercise for children.
Key amenities include restroom facilities, effective drainage systems, waste disposal options, compound and street lighting, CCTV surveillance, and a solar power system for sustainable energy use.
Spanning 2.27 acres, the park features a 2,940-square-meter walkway and 44 reinforced cement concrete benches, highlighting its commitment to both beauty and functionality. Engineer Khan expressed optimism about the park’s revival, anticipating it will soon regain its vibrant atmosphere.
Local resident Rofikul Islam, enjoying a stroll with his daughters, reminisced about the park’s significance. “We spent our childhood here. This park holds so many memories for us. I hope our children will also create cherished memories in this beautiful space,” he reflected.
The park’s history includes a controversial phase in which the Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) aimed to commercialize it by constructing a community center and guest house. However, public opposition led to the abandonment of these plans. The PWD took charge of the park in 2017, initiating a project titled “Development of United Nations Green Park with Modern Facilities in Panchlaish Residential Area,” which received Planning Commission approval in July 2022.
Originally budgeted at Tk11.70 crore, the project’s cost was later adjusted to Tk12.65 crore due to delays caused by monsoon rains, extending the completion timeline beyond the initial June deadline.
Md Abu Syed Selim, general secretary of the Panchlaish Residential Area Welfare Association, praised the transformation. “When there were attempts to commercialize the park, we strongly opposed it. The PWD has now turned this long-abandoned space into a green haven,” he stated. However, he urged the need for enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of the residential area amidst the expected influx of visitors.
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