Agartala, September 15: A public park developed under the Smart City project at Battala is drawing criticism from local residents over alleged neglect, poor sanitation and inadequate security, with waste from the adjoining fish market reportedly affecting the area.
The facility was created to provide residents with a clean and convenient space for recreation. However, residents say the condition of the park and its surroundings has raised concerns about its regular maintenance and monitoring.
The park’s location beside the Battala fish market has emerged as a major source of the problem. Fish remains, discarded crates, containers and other market waste are reportedly being left along the roadside and close to the park boundary.
Residents claim the accumulation has produced a foul smell and contributed to unhygienic conditions, making the area unpleasant for pedestrians and those visiting the park.
The condition inside the premises has also come under criticism. Visitors have reportedly noticed garbage and empty liquor bottles at various spots, raising questions over cleaning arrangements and supervision.
Residents further allege that groups suspected of consuming intoxicating substances frequently gather inside the park after sunset. They claim the lack of adequate monitoring has created an uneasy atmosphere, particularly for families and other visitors during evening hours.
Waste disposal from the fish market remains another pressing issue. According to residents, municipal collection vehicles are available in the area, but market refuse is allegedly still being dumped along the road and beside the park wall.
The situation, residents say, has undermined the purpose of the Smart City facility, with accumulated waste, foul odour and poor sanitation affecting the overall appearance and usability of the park.
The complaints have also brought the roles of the Agartala Municipal Corporation, police and agencies responsible for Smart City assets into focus. Residents want the authorities to clarify how frequently the park is cleaned and what measures are in place to prevent dumping and ensure public safety.
They have called for regular sanitation drives, proper segregation and disposal of fish-market waste, increased surveillance and stronger security arrangements during evening hours.
Residents said that the effectiveness of a public project should not be judged only by its construction, but also by how well it is maintained and managed after being opened for public use.
