Community Ownership: The Key to Queen’s Park’s Future Success
The vibrant Queen’s Park in Sultanabad has recently undergone its third makeover, thanks to the efforts of the Competitive and Livable City of Karachi (CLICK), a project supported by the World Bank and the Sindh government. With an impressive Rs58 million allocated for this vital community space, the focus now shifts to the crucial idea of “community ownership” for ensuring its ongoing success.
During the park’s inauguration, Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah emphasized a key point: while it’s the government’s job to create parks and playgrounds, the real work lies in maintaining them. He highlighted that active collaboration among citizens, local representatives, and elected officials is essential for true ownership of development projects. This ownership enables a community to monitor and care for its public spaces, creating a lasting bond between the park and its users.
CLICK Project Director Ayesha Hameed shared her insights, noting that parks created without genuine community involvement often lack ongoing support. Once the contractor leaves, there’s typically no local oversight, leading to neglect. This issue is compounded by unclear responsibilities among local bodies regarding maintenance, causing a “gray area” that can leave parks vulnerable to deterioration.
To combat this, CLICK is instating formal handovers to local town councils, ensuring that park maintenance is included in budget allocations. The team has implemented guidelines for a "Defect Liability Period," where the contractor remains responsible for maintenance to ensure everything stays in good shape initially. After this period, Town Municipal Corporations (TMCs) are tasked with full responsibility.
Further enhancing community ties, TMCs are encouraged to form Park Management Committees made up of local residents and municipal staff. This initiative aims to strengthen community ownership and guarantee the park’s sustainability over the long haul.
At Queen’s Park, recent enhancements include a walking track and upgraded playground facilities, making it a welcoming space for families and individuals of all abilities. Notably, the park is designed to be inclusive, featuring special provisions for women to feel safe and comfortable while enjoying the space.
It’s worth noting that while Queen’s Park may not be the largest or fanciest park in Karachi, it’s an essential step toward a greener, more vibrant city filled with accessible public spaces. With eight parks already completed and another 50 on the horizon, Karachi is taking significant steps to reshape its landscape.
This initiative is more than just about beautifying the city—it’s about fostering community spirit and ownership. As these parks flourish with local involvement, the hope is that they not only serve as recreational spaces but also nurture a deeper connection among residents.
For those interested in joining the conversation or seeking guidance on enhancing local community projects, Pro21st offers tailored resources and support for developers and civic leaders. Together, we can create spaces that truly belong to the people.
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