Ayub National Park, which for decades had been a picture of neglect, has now been transformed into a modern park catering to citizens of all ages.

Located on G.T. Road, near old Army House, the park is spread over 313 acres and includes landscaped gardens, scenic spots and a baradari. There are also three lakes within the park, with water sport facilities, lotus plants and fish.

Under the British raj, the area was known as Topi Rakh. Rakh is the Potohari word for ‘jungle’. Prior to partition, the ‘jungle’ served as a popular picnic spot.

The area was converted into a national park in 1959, during the Ayub Khan regime. Although it has lost land to development work and housing schemes over the last several years, the park has remained a popular recreational spot for residents of the twin cities.

Between 1959 and 2001, the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) was given responsibility for the park, and it was during this time that the park grew increasingly neglected. It was then handed over to the Army Heritage Foundation (AHF) by former president Gen Pervez Musharraf.

The additions are such that they attract citizens of all ages and interests. For sports enthusiasts, the park also includes cricket and football grounds, zip-line facilities, pedal boats, trail and quad bikes.

The park also includes the Jungle Barracks, which have been converted into resorts where guests can stay overnight.

Meanwhile, at the Jungle World Theme Park features two interconnected activities – an animal themed amusement park and a zoo.

“We are making an effort to follow the directions of the veterinary doctors’ team and provide the animals with a better environment. Special arrangements have been made for them [depending on the season]. Because of the better environment, the pair of tigers gave birth to six cubs two years ago,” retired Col Tasleemul Haq, the director at the Jungle World Park and Zoo, said.

Sports and Security director retired Col Shahzad Mehmood said an archery club was currently under construction at the park.

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2016