Neglect of Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor Turns Durga Puja Park into Parking Lot; Residents Slam Civic Apathy
The ambitious Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor project in Prayagraj is increasingly coming under criticism from residents, who allege that official neglect and poor maintenance have reduced the area’s Durga Puja Park into an unofficial parking zone.
What was envisioned as a major spiritual and tourist destination is now grappling with civic disorder and crumbling infrastructure.
Residents of Colnelganj Ward say the area is plagued by a host of persistent problems, including an inadequate drinking water supply, poor sanitation, security concerns and insufficient street lighting.
According to locals, these issues have become a major source of inconvenience not only for residents but also for devotees and tourists visiting the Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor.
People living in the ward claim that low water pressure and contaminated water supply remain year-round problems and become even more severe with the onset of summer.
They allege that despite repeated complaints, little has been done to resolve these basic civic issues.
The deteriorating condition of infrastructure has further compounded public frustration. Several underground electricity distribution boxes are reportedly damaged and lying exposed, raising safety concerns among residents.
Locals fear that the neglected electrical infrastructure could potentially lead to accidents if immediate corrective measures are not taken.
Residents alleged that after constructing the corridor, authorities virtually abandoned the area and failed to put in place an effective maintenance mechanism.
According to residents, Durga Puja Park, which should have remained a recreational and cultural space, has gradually been converted into an informal parking area due to the absence of proper regulation and supervision.
Encroachments, hanging electrical wires and neglected public utilities have further diminished the area’s appeal.
The growing resentment among residents reflects a broader concern that despite the significance of the Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor as a religious and tourism landmark, basic civic amenities and regular upkeep continue to be overlooked.
Locals are now demanding immediate intervention by the authorities to restore essential services, improve infrastructure, and preserve the character and sanctity of the area.
Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor Falls into Neglect Despite ₹100-Crore Facelift, Devotees and Tourists Face Mounting Problems
The Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor, developed as a major religious and tourism destination in Prayagraj, is increasingly becoming a symbol of administrative neglect.
Despite an investment of nearly ₹100 crore and extensive beautification work, the corridor is now struggling with poor maintenance and deteriorating civic conditions, leaving residents, devotees and tourists deeply disappointed.
Spread across a vast area, the corridor was envisioned as a transformative project that would enhance the spiritual and cultural appeal of Bharadwaj Ashram.
The development included facilities such as a food plaza, a park, a gymnasium, links to Motilal Nehru Medical College, and connections to other prominent landmarks, including the Hanuman Temple and the Vibhishan Temple.
Every year, more than one lakh visitors are estimated to pass through the corridor.
Bharadwaj Ashram remains one of Prayagraj’s most revered religious sites, attracting a steady stream of devotees throughout the year.
Recognising its significance, authorities recently undertook an extensive beautification drive and transformed the area into a modern corridor.
However, residents claim that the grand vision has been undermined by inadequate upkeep and a lack of regular supervision.
Locals point out that the corridor’s infrastructure is already showing signs of deterioration. Several civic amenities are either malfunctioning or lying unattended.
The absence of proper maintenance has created hardships for pilgrims and tourists, many of whom expect basic facilities and a clean, well-managed environment at such an important spiritual destination.
Traffic congestion has emerged as another major challenge. Residents allege that there is no effective traffic management plan in place. Vehicles are often parked haphazardly, creating bottlenecks and causing inconvenience to pedestrians and visitors.
The situation worsens during peak hours when the influx of devotees and tourists increases significantly.
The corridor has also become vulnerable to encroachments and anti-social activities.
According to residents, certain anti-social elements gather in the area after sunset, leading to concerns about safety and security.
People have also complained that individuals often consume tobacco products, including gutkha and pan masala, and spit indiscriminately within the premises, tarnishing the sanctity and cleanliness of the corridor.
Residents argue that the corridor’s present condition stands in stark contrast to the grand promises made during its inauguration.
They believe that without regular monitoring and prompt corrective measures, the ambitious project risks losing both its aesthetic appeal and spiritual significance.
The growing resentment among local people highlights a larger concern: while massive funds have been spent on creating impressive infrastructure, sustained maintenance and effective management remain the missing links.
Residents are now demanding immediate intervention from the authorities to restore cleanliness, improve traffic regulation, strengthen security measures and ensure that the Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor receives the care and attention befitting one of Prayagraj’s most prominent religious landmarks.
