Page 212 - Muzaffargarh Gazzetteer

large scale. The Chairman Planning Department gave his nod right away.
Later, the proposal was formally sent to him by the Commissioner office. To
our good fortune, Mr. Tahir Khursheed got posted as Secretary Industries
after a few weeks. No wonder, when the 2019-20 budget was finally
announced, establishment of an Industrial Park, through public-private
partnership, had been made part of the next Annual Development Plan of the
province.
RENOVATION AND REHABILITATION OF THE FAYYAZ PARK

Fayyaz Park is the only public park in the city. It was established on the site
of the old Deputy Commissioner House in mid 1980s. Originally spanning
over an area of 57 kanals and 13 marlas, it has now squeezed to 43 kanals.
Over the time, it too had become a picture of utter neglect. A big portion of
the park had virtually become junkyard for the out of order vehicles and
other equipment of the District Council. The grass cover had mostly lost. Tree
growth was haphazard and unplanned. In the absence of appropriate
watering arrangement, the soil was increasingly becoming affected by
salinity. Benches and poles were damaged or missing. Swings, slides and the
like, meant for the kids, were broken. The track and pathways were in
disrepair. Worse still, parts of the park had become sanctuary for the drug
users. Other immoral activities were reportedly also taking place, especially
at odd hours. All of this meant that the residents of Muzaffargarh city had
been deprived of their only park due to the sheer neglect of those concerned.

A comprehensive project for the rehabilitation and improvement of the park
was prepared in the first half of 2019 with the help of the engineers,
horticulturists and other experts on the pattern of leading parks of Lahore
and Multan, and the work was started forthwith. Extensive cleansing was
carried out and entire junk was removed. New pathways/tough pavers were
schematically constructed. A layer of 6 inches’ sweet soil was laid down in
the entire park. Grass was especially procured from Patoki, and was planted
by their workmen. Shrubs were removed; and aging and worthless trees were
replaced with newer and better ones. Underground network of pipes, with
sprinklers, was laid down for watering purposes. Victorian benches as well
as lamp posts were fitted, and the entire park was properly lit up. A special
and exclusive area was designated and developed for families and children,
and swings, merry-go-round and other playing equipment were installed.
New toilets were constructed. The adjoining mosque was rehabilitated.
Proper parking areas were created. Outer wall was replaced with fence to give
more openness to the park and to enable passers-by as well as motorists to
enjoy the greenery and the freshness from a distance too. A canteen was also
being established. Similarly, gazebos were being installed at 4-5 points. And
above all, a proper jogging track was laid down all along the outer boundary
to introduce and promote healthy habits among the residents of the city. It
was hoped visiting Fayyaz Park would eventually become a true fun-filled
family activity for the people of Muzaffargarh.

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