BARAMULLA: Cariappa park, one of the oldest park in the Baramulla, is in shambles and lying in a state of neglect. Its dilapidated condition has continuously irked the locals and visitors.
Park was named after Field Marshal Kodandera “Kipper” Madappa Cariappa who was the first Indian Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) of the Indian Army.
He led Indian forces on the Western Front during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947.
He was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949. He is one of only two Indian Army officers to hold the Five-star rank of Field Marshal; the other being Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. His distinguished military career spanned almost three decades.
Locals here said that this park was the only place in the Baramulla market where thousands of people would throng for its beautiful landscape and lush green garden.
“However, one year ago the government started renovation work in this park and trees were cut down. But later development work was stopped by the concern agencies due to unknown reason and now it has become hub for stray dogs and stray horses,” locals said.
People said that Municipal Council Baramulla and other agencies also dump snow and mud outside the park and closed its main gate while clearing the roads and paths after heavy snowfall last month.
They said that there are several agencies including Municipal Council Baramulla, Army and Floriculture who claimed that it is their land, but when it comes to its development, all the agencies deny its responsibility.
People appealed to administration to renovate this park for the benefit of people.

Mushtaq Ahamd