DDA to develop Astha Kunj as 'theme' park

Delhi Development Authority's (DDA) much-touted project of developing world-class theme parks in the national capital is close to taking its first step in that direction. The agency which was to develop five of its district parks into theme parks in the national capital has zeroed in on two locations — Astha Kunj in south Delhi and Dwarka (near Palam drain) in southwest Delhi.

Spread over 200 cares, Astha Kunj is the biggest park under the DDA. The park which is flanked by a number of tourist and popular religious spots such as the Lotus Temple, Iskcon temple and Nehru Place, among others had over the years become a hotbed for petty crimes such as robbery and snatching.

According to officials, the parks are to be developed on the lines of international destinations such as London's Hyde Park and New York's Central Park. However, the themes ranging from ecology, heritage, science and culture, are yet to be decided upon. "We have invited request for proposals (RFPs). It will offer recreational activities to visitors. As Astha Kunj is a huge area, it was difficult maintain its security. The contract for security guards was given to a private company, but it did not work. The park is in the middle of a commercial and tourist hub. Developing it as a world-class recreational space will give the area a boost as well as make it safe in all respects," said a senior official.

The park is bordered by both affluent and run down colonies such as Sant Nagar and Garhi village. Tired of the increasing number of crimes, residents had formed their own team of security guards, who would in turns guard the entry and exits of the park.

Kailsah Aggarwal, a resident of East Kailash, said, "The park has become a safe haven for drug addicts and vagabonds. The park is a connecting link between the colony and the Nehru Place metro station. A number of residents use it to cross over, who would get robbed of essentials after dusk. We had been writing to the agencies concerned for a long time and even approached the police. It will come as a big relief if the park is redeveloped and is guarded at all times.

The park spread over a huge area has scalable walls, inadequate lighting and lack of security guards, which facilitated the movement of ant-social elements here.

London style

According to officials, the parks are to be developed on lines of international destinations such as London’s Hyde Park and New York’s Central Park
The park is bordered by both affluent and run down colonies such as Sant Nagar and Garhi village.