The famous Gautam Buddha Statue, placed in the middle of the lake. Image credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/ File:Gautam_Budhha_Statue_on_the_Hussain_Sagar_Lake.jpg
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KEEP IT GREEN
In today’s times of rapid urbanization, where land is being acquired left, right and centre, and concrete dreams are being promised in exchange, it is quite a treat to see a public forest sitting snugly in the middle of all this development, relatively untouched by the greed of urban desires. KBR Park, a 390 acres forest that is often termed as the green jungle amidst a concrete jungle, is more than just the lungs of the city. It is a reprieve for the urban living. The park was once a palace complex of 400 acres belonging to the Nizams. With time it transformed into a green belt open to the public and maintained by the forest department, with only the palace remaining restricted. The park is double walled. Between the two walls is a pedestrian path, where residents are seen walking, jogging, taking a stroll, in the mornings and evenings.
The path rises and falls with the topography, thus preserving the natural contour. This adds to the experience as it gives varied views of the city at different heights. The undulating path also provides degrees of difficulty as one walks along it. Within the inner wall is the vast expanse of flora and fauna. It is home to over 600 species of fauna and about 140 species of birds. The premise even has small water bodies, thus making it an ecosystem in itself. It is open during the day to visitors with a nominal entry fee. The park has become a spot for people to gather for informal activities, peaceful protests and nature club get-togethers. It is more than just a designated green zone, it is a space to express and interact.
June 2016 | CITY OBSERVER
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