Imagine having a park in your village or town that stages cultural programmes, food fests, talents shows and may be even swimming pools and film clubs? Yes, a few cities like Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi already have those but what if we have such avenues in all local bodies? That's what Kerala government is planning, and they will call those spaces 'Happiness Parks!'
For this, the local bodies should reportedly find at least 50 cents of land. In certain regions, existing parks would also be transformed into happiness parks by adding extra facilities.
Dumping grounds to pretty parks
It has been instructed that priority must be given to areas that have become dumping ground for waste or plots close to cemeteries. The suggestion has been made after it was evaluated that positive changes could be brought to the region with the inception of happiness park.
Besides, one day in a month should be celebrated as happiness day. Cultural programs where local artists could showcase their talents and food fests could be arranged as part of such festivities.
The department of local self government has instructed that the development funds and indigenous funds could be used to purchase lands and to arrange facilities. Besides, the local bodies could also use the share that has been allotted for waste management.
Meanwhile, in the urban areas, this could be merged with the Amrit project. The local bodies could rely on sponsorships and CSR funds of the corporate firms to find the necessary funds. The chief town planner has been assigned to prepare the draft plan for establishing the happiness park.
Amenities in the park
As per the plan, the park will have sitting spaces, entertainment areas, selfie corner, ‘taste the village’ corner where snacks and cold drinks are sold, mobile recharge station, wifi, drinking water, and proper waste management systems.
Besides, the park should be aesthetically designed so that the public could celebrate birthday parties or shoot ‘save the date’ videos.
Additional facilities
Facilities like dance – music floor, work from park facilities, digital board 3D theatre system, henna corner, cycle track, swimming pool, open gym, kids library, film club, pet station, cultural spot related to famous writers in the locality, sports like chess, carroms and table tennis too could be arranged if there is extra space, according to authorities.
