Redevelopment of Rasulbagh Children’s Park

Creation of new green areas, Transformation of previously derelict areas

The main goals of the intervention were: 1. To develop a green space for communal activities (which in turn were expected to promote community relations, with renewed trust and respect amongst the locals), which might help locals to become mentally, physically, and poetically enlightened by preserving existing trees and planting new ones (Ref 1) 2. To address issues related to water management (floods control during the rainy season, rainwater harvesting) (Ref 1) 3. To contribute to the encouragement of a healthy and clean environment with available waste and recycling bins (Ref 2) 4. To increase the functionality of the park and redevelop the central area into a sports field (Ref 3) 5. To foster a sense of community through a participatory approach and grassroots movement, which in turn will help with the maintenance and management of the green area (Ref 1)

Prior to the start of the intervention, the implementation team spent a great deal of time and energy in garnering the involvement of the residential and business communities, the elderly and the imam as authority figures, but also local young people, who stood to gain the most benefit. The implementation team intended to introduce the park into the mental fabric of the community, therefore, fostering a certain affection towards the area being redeveloped, hoping to improve its chances of survival once redesigned. During the hearing, the plans were presented to the entire community to make sure everybody was on board with the initiative. Existing trees were preserved and additional ones were planted, taking into consideration two aspects: the trees' functionality and their ability to absorb water (Ref 1). To establish an environmentally friendly and visually beautiful boundary, numerous flora, such as Sofeda trees, Chalta trees, Carissa carandas plants, Bilimbi trees, and many more, have been planted along the park's farthest edges. Wastewater collection, filtration and diversion trenches have also been built, as well as new drainage and piping systems underneath the park to allow new grass to grow. The rainwater collection trenches also act as aqueducts that divert rainwater away from sewage ducts and carry it into a new filtration system (Ref 2). After the renovation, the park had a proper open field for sports, a children’s playground, a pavilion, a 500 ft walkway, a public plaza for people to rest, a library, a gymnasium, a community hall, a place for prayer and public restrooms (Ref 3).

• Local government/Municipality
• Citizens or community groups
• Young people and children