Rusting swings at Seminary Hills children's park in Nagpur despite Rs 4.5 crore spent

The children's park at Seminary Hills in West Nagpur is in the news for its poor condition. Big claims are being made about making the city a smart city and about development, but facilities are not being maintained regularly once work is completed. The state of this park is cited as an example.

The park was developed some time ago at a cost of crores of rupees. Many swings and pieces of equipment have now begun to rust, and in some places the swings appear damaged. Concern is being raised over the safety of children.

The Seminary Hills children's park is counted among the main recreation spots in Nagpur. Hundreds of people visit daily to enjoy nature and spend time with their children. New facilities were provided in the park after the development work, and it was hoped that visitors would have a better experience. But for lack of upkeep, people are now disappointed.

Local residents and visitors to the park say the administration should focus on regular cleaning, repairs and care of the equipment. According to them, rusted and broken swings could be a danger to children. They say such equipment should be repaired in time or, if necessary, taken out of use.

Visitors also complain that an entry fee is charged at the park, yet the upkeep of the swings and other facilities is not getting full attention. People are asking why, when visitors are being charged a fee, the safety and regular maintenance of the facilities are not being ensured.

For the safety of children, regular inspection of the swings, rust removal, painting and repair of broken equipment are necessary. It is also necessary that clear information emerge on what action the administration is taking on these problems.

It is said that in 2024 a fund of Rs 4.5 crore was sanctioned for the development of the children's park. The then Deputy Conservator of Forests had said at the time that new swings would be installed in the park, a walking track would be built for citizens, seating would be arranged, and facilities for various play activities would be developed.

Now, after this work, complaints are coming in of rusting swings and some broken equipment. The condition of facilities built by spending crores of rupees has raised questions over the maintenance arrangements. Citizens demand that the administration concerned inspect the park, get the faulty swings repaired and ensure regular upkeep in future.