Gorakhpur: In a major urban transformation initiative, a decades-old garbage dump at Ekla Bandha near the Rapti river has been converted into a green eco park and city forest.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is scheduled to inaugurate the project on April 23, along with a newly constructed four-lane road connecting the site to Baghagara.The site, located near Rajghat bridge, was once a major environmental hazard, known for methane emissions, frequent fires, foul odour and air pollution, posing health risks to nearby residents. Acting on the Chief Minister’s directive, the Gorakhpur Municipal Corporation (GMC) undertook bio-remediation and cleared approximately 2.26 lakh metric tonnes of legacy waste, reclaiming around 40 acres of land.The redeveloped area now features an ecopark with walking tracks, footpaths, yoga and meditation zones, and a dedicated children’s play area. Additionally, a 2.9-km stretch adjoining the site has been upgraded into a four-lane road with a green belt along the divider.Officials said the total cost of the project is Rs41.5 crore, including Rs9 crore for waste processing, Rs4.5 crore for park development, and Rs28 crore for road construction.On the occasion, the CM will also launch a Swachh School campaign under the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0, aimed at promoting hygiene awareness and civic responsibility among students.
