Hyderabad: Theme parks developed to educate children and provide recreational spaces for families are showing signs of neglect with poor maintenance and damaged facilities.
A visit to the Jungle Book Theme Park in Moosapet and the Energy Theme Park in the seventh phase of KPHB colony revealed problems ranging from stagnant water and unclean surroundings to damaged play-area flooring and broken roofing sheets.
The Jungle Book Theme Park, developed at an estimated cost of `85.5 lakh was inaugurated on October 21, 2022. Nearly four years later, the park appears to be struggling with inadequate maintenance.
Dark-coloured stagnant water with fallen leaves and other waste floating in it had accumulated along the roadside near the main entrance. The watchman facility near the park was also found in a neglected condition, with dry leaves, rubble and debris accumulated inside and around its entrance.
Inside the park, dry leaves and fallen branches were scattered around the animal sculptures and jungle-themed decorations. Some of the sculptures also need a fresh coat of paint. The stagnant water and muddy approach road could cause inconvenience to children and elderly visitors.
Visitors also complained about inadequate lighting and lack of electricity at the park. They alleged that the prescribed timings were not being followed and that the park was being closed by 6 pm, despite its scheduled evening hours being from 4 pm to 7 pm. The park is officially open from 6 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 7 pm.
The Energy Theme Park is facing similar problems. Developed at a cost of Rs 2.8 crore and inaugurated in October 2023, the park was intended to educate visitors about renewable energy, while providing a recreational space.
However, the damaged rubber flooring in the children’s play area, torn and broken roofing sheets, overgrown vegetation and dry leaves littering the premises have affected its upkeep. The landscaped sections also appeared poorly maintained, while the damaged infrastructure raised concerns over visitor safety. Some areas around the energy-themed displays were also in need of attention.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, a UBD official said leaf shedding had begun early this season and that the premises were being cleaned every day, though leaves continued to accumulate.
The ward officer said the damage to the roofing sheets had been referred to the electrical department, while repairs to the children’s play-area flooring had been referred to the engineering department.
On the accumulation of dry leaves, the officer said they were being cleared daily and the remaining leaves would also be removed. The borewell had dried up and arrangements could be made to supply water through tankers, the officer added.
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