Nrupatungabetta now a picnic hot spot

Source: Times of India

HUBLI: The Nrupatungabetta Ecological Education Park near Unkal in Hubli has come as boon for the people of the city, as they can spend their quality time with their families during the weekend and on holidays.

Within a span of few months, Nrupatungabetta has turned into a favourite picnic spot for the people of twin cities of Hubli-Dharwad. This is the result of the perseverance of the people of the twin cities, who kept demanding the authorities to develop Nrupatungabetta into picnic spot.

At last, the district administration, HDMC and other authorities concerned initiated works and developed at a cost of nearly Rs 1.20 crore, including all recreational facilities, last year.

Of the total 64 acres of the forest department's property, the picnic area was developed over 6.5 acres, while 1.5 acre was used to host a garden. This posh spot, which was thrown open to public last August, is now seeing a large number of visitors daily.

Facilities:

* Six-seater Nruptungabetta's public vehicle is available for senior citizens, who find it difficult to walk, a half-kilometre from the main gate.

* For visitors, there are three gazebos (Vishranti Dhaam), children park, water fountain, pathway, landscaping, arch, deer park. Visitors can also find solace by visiting the temples and darga set up on the premises of the Nrupatungabetta.

* The entire park is illuminated with solar lighting facility that makes this park environment friendly.

* Visitors can have a panoramic view of KSCA cricket stadium in Rajangar, BVB College, Naveen Hotel, KIMS campus, Gangubai Hangal Gurukul, Hubli APMC, Unkal Lake and other important landmarks of the city from hillock point in the park.

* To entertain visitors, the Kannada and Culture department organizes musical concerts every Sunday.

Speaking to `The Times of India,' Nirimithi Kendra's project engineer, Venkatesh Shettar said: "The government has spent Rs 1.20 crore for the beautification of this park and has received an overwhelming response from the people.

Sharing their views, some visitors, including Shakeel, a student of PC Jabin College, Nadeem a resident of Hubli, said: "The park is well-maintained, neat and tidy. We visit the park frequently."

To add more value to the park's greenery, PC Jabin College planted 150 saplings recently. The park has security cover all around, with a hefty fine for whoever is found smoking. The park is open from 9 am to 8.30 pm with a minimum fee of Rs 10 as entry charge, which is used for maintenance of the park, said sources.