Noida authority's decision to take over 25 per cent of one of city's most frequented parks, located in Sector 47, for commercial purpose has angered the residents of the neighbourhood. A delegation of residents met senior officials of the Authority to protest claiming they "are eating up the space". If Noida authority’s plan gets executed, over 50 well-grown trees will be cut down.
The matter came to light two weeks ago, when the authority sought suggestions and objections through a public notice regarding their decision to set up a commercial complex on a nearby piece of land. The authority's decision to construct the complex on a major chunk of the park where over 200 well-grown trees have been planted, instead of on the previously allotted space for commercial uses, raised sharp criticism from many. Over 300 residents, including some environmentalist and city-based social organizations also protested against the move. These people have demanded authority to take back its decision as the park is considered as a lifeline for the entire Sector.
According to residents, the park measures 100 metre length as well as width-wise, and is well-maintained. It has plenty of trees and Noida authority has spent a lot on its beautification a few months ago.
"As the park was constructed under the Master-Plan made by the authority, the officials should not take any step to acquire its land for commercial purposes. They should at least think about the trees in the park. With the move of Noida authority, the existence of the park will be in the dark as it would be used by visitors of the market," said Pradeep Kharbanda, a town planner, who is also a resident of Sector 47.
A senior official of Noida authority said that they are reviewing the matter and any decision in this regard will be taken with proper consent of the local people. "As we have issued a public notice, we will observe objections and suggestions properly for the period of 30 days and later, we will discuss the issue with concerned persons. But, at present we cannot comment if we will move forward with our decision or not," said Dev Pujari, Chief Architect Planner of Noida authority.