GUJRAT: The Nawaz Sharif Park has long been neglected by the Municipal Corporation which is why it is filled with stagnant water all around, becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes and insects.

Initially, water accumulated in grassy areas of the park due to the heavy rains around two weeks ago, but now sewerage water from adjoining areas had also accumulated there with no remedial measures by the civic agency so far.

The recreational facility has become futile for the public; the swings cannot be used and the jogging track is also inundated.

Arshad Ali, who had been jogging at the park regularly for the last few years, said none of the tracks could be used due to the stagnant water that had bred mosquitoes also. He tried walking on the portion of the track that was not yet inundated but he was bit by mosquitoes and ended up suffering from a skin problem, he added.

Sarwar Butt, a resident from an adjoining area, said the accumulated water had blocked their way to the mosque located in front of the park gate. The authorities concerned had not heeded to their repeated requests for resolving the issues.

Municipal Corporation Mayor Haji Nasir Mehmood could not be reached for comment as he is said to be travelling out of country.

Locals have urged the Punjab government to take notice of the poor sanitation condition of public parks here and ensure provision of facilities round the clock.

Published in Dawn, August 22nd, 2017