Pic: The project, initiated to overhaul the 96-year-old historic ‘Lady Sykes’ garden (popularly known as ‘Chitaguppi Park’), is not seeing much progressHubballi: The development work to protect the 96-year-old historic ‘Lady Sykes’ garden, popularly known as ‘Chitaguppi Park’, is proceeding at a snail’s pace. It has been over 8 months since the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) began the phase-wise project adjacent to the commissioner’s office on Lamington Road, yet the first phase remains incomplete.The HDMC allocated Rs 80 lakh for the initial phase, but significant work is still pending. The corporation planned the phased development to safeguard the park, which adjoins its own office premises.Unfortunately, more than 8 months into the project, significant portions of the work remain incomplete, leaving the park in a state of limbo. The delay in the development work has sparked frustration among the citizens and park-goers who have long awaited the promised improvements.The park, which once thrived as a vibrant community hub, now struggles with outdated facilities and neglected landscapes. The slow progress has also raised questions about project management and resource allocation within the HDMC.Despite these challenges, the environment activists remain hopeful about the park’s revival. The development plan includes essential upgrades such as improved pathways, enhanced lighting, and the restoration of historical elements that reflect the park’s rich heritage. These enhancements are crucial not only for preserving the park’s legacy but also for ensuring it continues to serve as a vital green lung for the city.HDMC officials have assured the public that efforts are being made to expedite the work and address the delays. However, the citizens are eager for more transparency and regular updates on the project’s progress. As the city grows and urbanises, the preservation of such historic and natural spaces becomes increasingly important.The successful completion of the ‘Lady Sykes’ garden development will not only honour its past but also secure its future as a beloved urban oasis for generations to come.R Vijay Kumar, superintending engineer, said that a notice was issued to the contractor to expedite the first phase of park improvement works. He said that once phase 1 was over completely, the second phase would be taken up and that designing and other planning work was under way.As per the plan, walkway improvement works in the first phase were completed and water supply installation to the park was finished. Planter boxes with seating and tables with benches were under way, but some works remained incomplete. The contractor has said that he will finish the work in 20 days.
