Poor upkeep inside Krishnalanka Park despite tidy entrance

Vijayawada: Krishnalanka Riverfront Park, developed as a public recreational space along Krishna river, is showing signs of neglect, with dry lawns, withering plants, damaged amenities and poor upkeep across several sections.A TOI visit to the park on Monday revealed a sharp contrast between the well-maintained entrance and the deteriorating interior. While greenery is visible near the entry, large stretches inside lack the lush cover expected of a riverfront space, with several plants and trees dried up.Children’s play equipment and outdoor gym installations were either damaged or non-functional, while a lighting structure within the premises was also found broken. Though the walking track remains usable and continues to draw visitors, surrounding areas appear poorly maintained.Stray dogs and grazing animals were seen moving freely inside the park. The absence of a boundary wall along one side has enabled unrestricted access, raising concerns over protection of greenery and infrastructure.Speaking to TOI, VMC deputy director of horticulture SVK Chandrasekhar said maintenance works had been taken up before the floods and that certain civil works were currently in progress. He said restoration of greenery and horticulture works would be taken up within a month.He added that daily-wage workers, sanitation staff and security personnel have been deployed, and cleaning is being carried out regularly.On reports of liquor consumption inside the park, Chandrasekhar said the matter had been brought to the notice of police and warnings issued to those found violating norms. He noted that lack of a boundary wall makes access control difficult.He said construction of a boundary wall has been sanctioned and will begin shortly. Local public representatives, including the MP and corporator, have also reviewed the situation.Visitors hope the park regains its greenery soon and emerges as a vibrant public space.