In a bid to increase its green cover, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has begun converting unused plots and wastelands in its area into lush green gardens.
To start off, the civic agency has already transformed a stretch of vacant land near Jor Bagh Metro station into a park. Moreover, another unused plot near INA Metro station will also be turned into a public park soon.
"We have just finished developing a park at Jor Bagh, which is at a walking distance from the Metro station there. The newly developed park has been beautified with 5,200 varieties of ornamental plants, shrubs and ground covers. A few of the exquisite ones are Hamelia, Jatropha, Kaner, Rohilia, Red Iresine, Furcaria, Cycus palms, livingstonia palm, Bismarckia palm and so on," said JP Sharma, director, horticulture department, NDMC.
The piece of land, where the park now stands, had over the years apparently turned into a garbage dumping site for the residents of the area, claims the agency. Besides, the agency has identified six other sites to be made into a park. "With garbage strewn all over the area, it was not only becoming a health hazard but also was marring the scenic beauty of the area. We have conducted a survey and spotted nearly six such areas which have the potential to be converted into a beautiful park,"
added Sharma.
Meanwhile, those visiting INA Market or Delhi Haat will soon be able to relax and get cozy with nature as the NDMC is going to make a park out of the unused land adjacent to INA Metro station. "For over five years, we had given the plot to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for Metro works. Now they have given back the land to us and the council has decided to convert it into a garden with benches, a jogging track and ornamental plants," said Sharma.
In addition to this, the civic body will also beautify the T-point of Panchsheel Marg and Bina Marg. The mini-garden will be developed on Santushti road, opposite Samrat Hotel. Out of its total area of 10,561 acre, NDMC currently has 1,250 acres as its green cover. Besides, it has six major parks and 124 small parks.