Inauguration of Extension of Central Park, Namchi

Namchi, 25th August (IPR): The extension of Central Park, Namchi was inaugurated by MLA Cum Advisor Infrastructure Development Mr. G.T. Dhungel, today. The programme organized by the Urban Development Department (UDD) had the presence of Chairperson (UDD) Mr. Karka Bahadur Rai, Chairman Namchi Municipal Council (NMC) Mr. Ganesh Rai, Chairman Building and Housing Department Mr. Tashi Dorjee Tamang, Advisor Skill Development Department Mr. Satish Chandra Rai, Secretary UDD Mr. M. T. Sherpa, Chief Town Planner Mr. Dinker Gurung, CEO Namchi Smart City Ltd Mr. Thupden Gyasto Bhutia, S.E. Mr. Sailendra Sharma, Deputy Director Mr. Biswa Chandra Rai accompanied by NMC Councillors, Officials and staff of UDD and other stakeholders.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest congratulated the public of Namchi on acquiring this state-of-art beautification project which has added more charm to the town. On, this note he said that this beautification will attract tourists and the public alike as it has changed the ambience and transformed the look of Namchi town. Complimenting, the efforts of the Urban Development Department in completing the extension of the central park project he informed that the department has presented a holistic view of Namchi as well as the state. Moreover, he added that due to increased urbanisation newer challenges have cropped up and updated that the solution to these encounters are being looked into by the State Government systematically by creating adequate spaces with good facilities.
Speaking during the programme Chairman NMC Mr. Ganesh Rai expressed his gratitude towards the Urban Development Department and appraised that NMC will attend to maintain the extension part of central park. He also underlined that this extension was an improved infrastructure for Namchi town which is artistically pleasing. He further spoke that this extension part is dedicated to the people of Namchi and urged the residents to take ownership and ensure cleanliness, care and maintenance through collective endeavour.
Secretary (UDD) Mr. M.T. Sherpa gave an overview of the extension of Central Park. He said that the paintings are under the ‘State Culture Theme’, the decoration is based on flora and fauna, local musical theme, floral and scripture of Sikkim (Nepali, Bhutia and Lepcha), traditional culture (Nepali, Bhutia and Lepcha), calligraphy of Sikkim, Lord Buddha in meditation state and the eight lucky signs. The people of Namchi can avail and enjoy the space and other attractions provided at this extension site which could also result in increased economic activities and revenue generation. Some of the amenities provided at this extension are an underground drainage system with sufficient width and depth provided throughout the length of the project. This shall cater to the rainwater during the monsoon season and other times and shall provide a uniform passage to the runoff water. Iron grating along with inspection chambers are provided so as to inspect and keep the drain free of blockage and any kind of hindrance . Similarly, Utility Duct is constructed along the entire stretch of the project. The main objective of this is to provide a passage for laying of electrical cables, water supply pipes, Optic fibre cables, etc. Additionally, benches and sit out are provided where one can sit and relax, a water filtration unit for ease of drinking water to the local public and tourists has also been fixed. Dustbins are installed at various locations to keep the area clean, hygienic and free of littering.
Additional Chief Engineer Mr. Sanjay Kumar Singh presented the technical report of the project extension of central park at Namchi. The project was executed with the total original sanction of Rs. 1800.37 Lakhs, the post tender sanction was Rs. 2127.99 Lakhs. The revised sanction was Rs. 2650.25 Lakhs with Central Share of Rs. 1620.33 Lakhs and State Share of Rs. 1029.92 Lakhs. The name of the Contractor is M/s RASP Infrastructure (JV). The date of commencement was on 27/06/2016 and the date of completion is on 30/05/2023. This project has been differentiated into six categories they are widening and remodelling of road, protective work, administrative block, beautification at extension of central park, public utility centre and other amenities. In, widening and remodelling of road the total carpeted road length is approximately 14 chain (433 m) and the total parking area is 1227 sq mm where 104 Vehicles can be parked. Under Administrative block 10 units Class IV quarter has been constructed. A Public Utility Building is also being designated from one of the old existing quarters and a space for parking has also been created. The public utility building consists of Ground and 2 storey, the ground floor is 858 Sqft with 4 numbers of Vendor stall consisting of toilets for Gentleman and Ladies. The first floor is of 1082 Sqft which includes a cafeteria, the third floor is of 1260 Sqft and serves as a multipurpose hall and library designated for the Bhanu Committee
It was informed that as a part of beautification the entire stretch of the RCC wall is finished with traditional motif along with tubular, truss roof with shingles.
Similarly, the fibre reinforced plastic murals installed are considered keeping in mind the ‘Places of Interest’ in and around Namchi detailing Siddheshwar Dham, Namchi, Statue of Guru Padmasambhava, Tathagata Tsal Ravangla, Ropeway Namchi, Shirdi Sai Mandir Namchi, Tarey Bhir Sadam, Shree Krishna Pranami Mandir, Temi Tea Garden, Ralong Palchen Cholong Monastery Ralong, Ngadak Monastery, Mt Kanchendzonga and a tree with red panda.
Likewise, Bhanu Park has also been remodelled incorporating an open amphitheatre which can accommodate approximately 25 numbers of people during any kind of programmes. This park is complete with a proper drainage system, a brief write up on Adi Kavi Bhanu-Bhakta Acharya in English and Nepali has also been constructed and engraved in a granite stone.