Balurghat, Oct. 27 -- The local administration has locked down Sarengbari Park in the Hili block of South Dinajpur, suspending its operations indefinitely following widespread complaints of public drinking and indecent activities on the premises.
According to the Hili block administration, the conduct of security personnel is currently under review and plans are underway to implement stronger security protocols to safely reopen the park.
Sarengbari Park, located under the Dhalpara Gram Panchayat, is a prominent natural tourism destination and popular picnic spot within the Hili block.
Developed by the block administration with landscaped greenery and recreational facilities, the park operates on a nominal entry fee. However, residents alleged that the secluded areas behind the forestry and foliage had increasingly become safe havens for daytime drinking and illicit behaviour. The closure directive was reportedly issued after a local block official witnessed these activities during a sudden visit to the grounds, raising serious questions regarding the accountability of the park's staff.
Expressing concern over the lockdown, local resident Gouranga Sarkar said: "Because there are no CCTV cameras in the park, such incidents happen. Moreover, security guards do not keep watch inside the park, which drug addicts take advantage of all day. Just locking the park won't solve the problem. The administration needs to install CCTV cameras and maintain round-the-clock surveillance."
Another resident, Bipul Roy, added: "If this park is not reopened before the picnic season, local businesses will suffer. Necessary arrangements should be made after ensuring security."
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.