Punjab govt to uplift all parks in Rawalpindi before Eid

RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government has launched an extensive renovation plan for all 45 recreational spots throughout the city to enhance the Eid experience.

These renovations will include new amusement rides (battery-operated cars for children, dodging cars, and computer games).

Modern-looking boats have also been added to the three lakes located in Ayub National Park, which will allow visitors to take a boating activity. At Joyland, they are adding European amusement rides, and a variety of animals will be on display including pet birds, predatory animals (e.g., wolves and lions), and elephants, to ensure that children will find zoo exhibits exciting.

There will also be an introduction of a new species of aquatic birds to the lakes. In Patriata, the elevated chairlift ride that has become popular has been refurbished and will be ready for Eid.

There will be free entry to all parks, but rides/other activities will require tickets. Admission ticket prices have increased this year, due to inflation. These are the updated parking fees for either cars or motorcycles, which will also increase.

CCTV cameras are being installed at all recreational sites for security, and an extra security guard or two are assigned to patrol.

Parks will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. during the first three days of Eid and resume normal hours from 10 a.m. to midnight on the fourth day.

Food stalls will be set up in parking spaces, including those from both frequent and additional vendors, at all parks. Camel and horse rides will be available at larger parks, as well as pony and carriage rides.

Parks are being provided with new decorative lighting, and floral arrangements will be utilized for decoration.

According to Parks & Horticulture Authority Director General Ahmed Hassan Ranjha, the renovation and decoration of all parks will be completed by March 30.

Protective services will be stringently enforced at major parks like Children’s Park, Ladies Park, Ayub Park, Allama Iqbal Park, Shehbaz Sharif Park, Patriata Park, and Jinnah Park.