Residents of Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi are set to receive a major boost to local fitness and recreation as the Yogi Adityanath-led state government develops 24 smart parks across the city in the New Year. The parks will be equipped with facilities for yoga, walking and light exercise, allowing people to access such amenities close to their homes.
Of the 24 parks, 20 have already been completed, while work on the remaining four is progressing rapidly and they are expected to open to the public soon.
With rising concerns over lifestyle diseases, stress and obesity, more people are turning to morning walks and yoga to maintain physical and mental well-being. Health-conscious residents prefer green, clean spaces near their homes, but rapid urbanisation has led to the disappearance of many parks in city areas.
To address this issue, the Varanasi Development Authority had earlier undertaken purification and restoration work in some parks. Following the Narendra Modi-led NDA government’s third consecutive victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, a decision was taken to redevelop 24 parks in the city.
After the completion of other Smart City projects, the responsibility of reviving these neglected parks was entrusted to Varanasi Smart City during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term.
Amrendra Tiwari, Chief General Manager of Varanasi Smart City, tsaid that the parks are being made fully modern and functional. “Play equipment for children has been installed, strong and aesthetically designed walking pathways have been constructed, and attractive wall paintings are being created to enhance the beauty of the parks,” he said.
According to Tiwari, residents will be able to walk, practise yoga and engage in light exercise in these parks. Most of the pathways are complete, and painting work is in its final stages.
Once all the parks are ready in the New Year, residents of Varanasi will have greater access to healthy lifestyle options right near their homes.
— IANS
