RDA Fails to Renovate Liaquat Bagh

Rawalpindi: RDA fails to renovate Liaquat Bagh

RAWALPINDI: Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has failed to complete Rs 49.1 million project to renovate Liaquat Bagh after a lapse of two years.

The park has been an attraction for people of downtown areas for long. It was popular for its colourful plants, red roses, shady trees, well-kept lawns, flowerbeds, and a jogging track.

Expansion of roads has cut through the part while the RDA is least bothered about its renovation. Resultantly, the park is losing its beauty, robbing people of a good recreational opportunity. Its gates remain closed for general public in the evening.

The renovation project started in 2006, under which the RDA was to lay down grassy grounds, children amusement section, 12-15 feet high monument in memory of Liaquat Ali Khan, a mosque, canteen, fountains, flowerbeds, huge portraits of Quaid-i-Azam, Allama Iqbal etc.

The Punjab government released Rs 49.1 million for this project. Asked why it could not be completed in two years, RDA Director-General (DG) Brig ® Saeed Baig said the work had stopped because of general elections as all development funds were frozen to stop rigging.

He said the RDA had completed 50 percent work and it would be finalised by June this year. He said the monument depicting the fist of Liaquat Ali Khan would be installed near fountains.