Date:22/04/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/04/22/stories/2005042201610300.htm

Tamil Nadu

Neglected, VOC Park a den for anti-socials

Staff Reporter

ERODE: The Municipal V.O.Chidambaranar Park here has become a den for anti-social elements with authorities neglecting its proper maintenance. Though 21 persons have been deployed to look after the 15-acre park, wild growth has engrossed it and garbage has piled up. Many of the facilities provided have worn off.

A water tank constructed in 1919 when the Rationalist Movement leader, EVR Periyar was the chairman, and two others built recently on its premises, provide water to the residents of Erode.

When the late M.G. Ramachandran was the Chief Minister, the Seshasayee Paper and Boards had donated a children's train, the bogies of which have been auctioned. What remains now is the rusted rails.

Neglect has destroyed even the mini-zoo constructed some ten years back with a tiger, deer and lovebirds.

The tiger died. The deer was killed by stray-dogs and the birds flew away.

The fishpond is in a dilapidated condition and dead fish are seen floating in it.

The Municipality had fixed an entry fee of Re. 1 and many a time visitors were asked to shell out Rs. 2 by the private collection agents; that too without issuing any receipts.

The entry time is restricted from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., which is conveniently used by students who choose to buck the classes.

The Municipality officials say Rs. 50 lakhs has been earmarked in this year's budget for improving the park.

There is a plan to hand over the park to private persons or agencies or trusts to maintain it.

However, A section of the Councillors say the Municipality must maintain it by converting it to a theme park.