29 Arpents of Sodnac Park to See First Major Upgrade in 16 Years

The Sodnac Wellness Park is scheduled for a major rehabilitation with works expected to be completed by December of this year, following 16 years of neglect. The project is being funded by an allocated budget of Rs 7 million.

Environment Minister Launches Works

The Minister of Environment, Rajesh Bhagwan, initiated the rehabilitation project with a site visit on Wednesday, 24 September. The action responds to significant concerns from local residents regarding the deterioration of the park’s facilities.

Complaints focused on the state of the health trail, public toilets, and the outdoor gym, which were reported to be in a state of decrepitude. The 29-arpent park, managed by the Employees Welfare Fund (EWF), is a highly popular venue for joggers, athletes, and families.

Scope of the Works (Rs 7 Million)

The project will address community concerns through the modernisation of the public space. Planned works include:

• Refurbishment of the outdoor gym.
• General maintenance of the park.
• Modernisation of infrastructures.
• Installation of lighting, security services, and 24/7 cleaning.
• Extension of the health trail to the hill (already underway).
• Installation of a kiosk.
• Construction of a shelter and storage space for EWF employees.
• Creation of a dedicated jogging track.

Minister Bhagwan emphasised the government’s commitment to sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life for citizens. He called on residents to actively contribute proposals for the re-design.

Political Support and Accountability

The Minister was accompanied by Dr. Arvin Boolell (Minister of Agro-Industry), Chief Government Whip Stéphanie Anquetil, MP Veda Baloomoody, and Quatre-Bornes Mayor Bryan Rudy Kennoo, along with representatives from the EWF, Special Mobile Force (SMF), and the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW).

Stéphanie Anquetil confirmed that citizens’ grievances were not ignored, stating that she was “shocked” by the condition of the outdoor gym. She recalled posing a parliamentary question that secured the Rs 7 million funding.

Minister Boolell confirmed that the MSAW would manage stray dogs on the site through the existing capture-sterilisation-release programme.

Controversial Flowerpots to be Removed

In an unrelated announcement, Minister Bhagwan confirmed that the “controversial, costly, and dangerous” flowerpots on Hillcrest Avenue would be removed.

The government is considering relocating them to the Wellness Park or other areas of the city.

He stressed the importance of achieving the required quality standards and completing the works within the stipulated timeframe.

Source: Le Mauricien