The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has sent legal notice to New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) over construction of wooden huts and music in lodi Gardens. Citing it as hindrance to Capital’s cultural heritage, ASI has lambasted the installation of open-air gyms in the heritage park.
“The wooden huts are mere shades for the elderly or any other person for that matter to take shelter in case there’s rainfall. Our idea was to make things easier for people visiting the park and not to disturb the ecosystem of the Capital,” said an official in NDMC.
There are total two such huts in lodi Gardens. The huts are gazebo-like structure with wooden shacks for people to sit and spend quality time. “We received a notice from the ASI regarding the construction of two wooden huts citing it as disturbing the peace and heritage of the area. The wooden huts in no way can disturb the heritage of a place like lodi Gardens. What is even more startling is that there are only two such huts, which in no way are a disturbance to nature,” said Jalaj Shrivastava, NDMC Chairman.
In a similar case, NDMC planned to install music system in lodi Gardens for morning walkers. This move faced major flak from the ASI. “NDMC was told that the music would disturb the morning walkers and also the surrounding birds. Soft soothing music during morning walks is supposed to work as a booster,” said an official in the civic body.
In July, open-air gymnasiums were set up in lodi Gardens. Around 12 fitness equipment were installed in the park. “Objections were also raised at the installation of the gym but we have decided to get going with this. Gymnasiums will be installed in other areas too,” said Shrivastava.