Haryana's First Canine Park in Panchkula Falls Into Neglect: Residents Demand Urgent Restoration
It was designed as a comprehensive recreational and training space for dogs and their owners.
Haryana’s First Canine Park in Panchkula Falls Into Neglect: Residents Demand Urgent Restoration
Once celebrated as a pioneering facility for pet owners, Haryana’s first dedicated canine park at the Mansa Devi Complex (MDC) in Panchkula has fallen into neglect and underuse. According to local sources, it has prompted calls from local residents and stakeholders for urgent restoration and sustained maintenance.
The park was launched in 2022 at an estimated cost of INR 45 lakh. It was designed as a comprehensive recreational and training space for dogs and their owners. According to officials, it is spread across nearly one acre adjoining the waterworks in Sector 4. The facility was modelled to offer a safe and stimulating environment for pets, complete with a walking track, exercise and training equipment, separate lawns for large and small dogs, fountains, benches and other amenities.
The original layout featured elements such as jump hurdles, a mini hill climb, training platforms, bridges and balance beams, along with sand pits, a water pond and portable toilets. The park also had decorative features, including a dog statue and pathway lighting intended to improve usability for early morning and evening visits.
However, locals now describe the once-promising project as “going to the dogs”, citing poor maintenance, rusting gates, faded artwork and broken infrastructure that deter owners from regular visits. “I stopped going there because the lawn is uneven and not well kept. It doesn’t feel safe for dogs to run freely,” a resident said. Another dog owner said that while some sections are still usable, main features like fountains have been non-functional for an extended period.
Pet care professionals in the area have also weighed in. Kiza Gupta, proprietor of Barko Pet Centre in Sector 5, said the park’s concept was good but emphasised that consistent municipal maintenance and responsible use by the community are both essential for its long-term success. She said, “Parks work best when maintenance and responsible usage go hand in hand.”
According to sources, residents have urged the Panchkula Municipal Corporation to prioritise repairs and regular cleaning so that the facility can live up to its original promise as a safe and inclusive space for pets and their owners.
Source: The Tribune