Mangalore: Tagore Park - Weekend Leisure Spot Begs for Urgent Attention
Brijesh Garodi
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore
Mangalore, Aug 6: We may be proud of our rich history, but sadly, we do not go beyond the mere talk. When it comes to preserving our heritage, we shamefully lag behind. There are a number of instances wherein historical monuments, symbols of our illustrious past, are not well maintained and are left to rot.
Situated in the heart of the city, we come across such sight, probably pass by it every day, but never pay it much attention.
The place is called Tagore Park in Light House Hill. A place frequented by many, but unfortunately not given the attention it desires.
Built by Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan in the 18th century, Light House Hill gives us a marvellous view of the sunset and the sailing ships and boats in the sea. Light House Hill Fort is situated in the centre of the city on a hill called “Baavuta Gudda”, meaning the Flag Hill.
On the top of the hill is a deserted light house facing the sea. Around the light house, there is a park, named 'TAGORE PARK'.
A new light house was built in the year 1900. It carries an acetylene light, 33 feet above high tides, giving flashes for every 3 seconds visible for about 17 km at sea in clear weather. The masonary tower is 48 feet high from the base and was painted white in the earlier days.
The flag staff consisting of lower and top masts is 91 feet from the ground level and stands near the port office.
Not only sunset and sailing ships, one can also view the scenic beauty of Mangalore city from this place. Indeed, a very good spot to spend a leisurely evening, irrespective of age.
But things have changed now. The administration seems to be showing no interest in maintaing such a heavenly place. Things lie messed up inside, to such an extent that it hardly seems like a light house.
Pathways and steps have also been damaged. Seats are dilapitated condition. Most fountains are without water, and some which do have water have become breeding place for mosquitoes and other insects. Empty bottles, waste papers and packets are found here and there, all around the so-called park.
The light house also needs a patch up and renovation, if it has to be preserved for the next generation. Same is the case with PVS and Rabindranath Tagore’s statues as well.
Even the welcome board at the main entrance is hardly welcoming, with the steel letters on the board gone missing. The electric junction box inside the park is in such a state that it poses great danger especially to children who are let free to play in the park.
Children's play pool is completely damaged and awaits repair. The toilet, general play area, monuments, library and fountains inside the park too cry out for attention.
Another important aspect to be noted here is the rising up of a big building beside the park. The park is mainly famous for it sea and sunset view, but once this building is complete, it will obstruct everything and only the hard concrete of the building will be visible. It speaks of the negligence of the city administration in permiting this kind of building, which overshadows the importance of a historical landmark.
The district administration and the authority concerned need to take immediate steps in order to prevent this significant place from rotting further, and bring back the beauty of the Light House Hill and Tagore Park. When the government can spend lavishly on unwanted stuff, why not develop and maintain this park?
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