The upgradation of 56 parks in Rawalpindi under the supervision of the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has entered its final phase. These improvements have significantly boosted the number of visitors to the parks, with major additions such as new green belts, landscaping, tree plantations, and enhanced facilities like walking tracks, swings, lighting, and washrooms.
Three major parks—Allama Iqbal Park, Rawal Road Park, and Pothohar Park—have been officially designated as public parks, while others are now community and family parks. Specially designed “Ladies Parks” have also become fully operational. One of the newest additions is the Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan Park in Khayaban-e-Sir Syed, a family park covering 42 kanals, which was officially handed over to the PHA on Monday.
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Additionally, significant upgrades have been made to Quaid-e-Azam Park and Gulab Park. These parks now boast improved infrastructure, including new boundary walls and seating arrangements. The success of the project is evident in the rise of morning and evening visitors engaging in leisure activities, a positive shift that PHA officials attribute to the comprehensive revamp.
However, not all parks in Rawalpindi are benefiting equally. The historic Liaquat Bagh Park, which has suffered from repeated political gatherings and the proximity of a waste transfer station, has seen a decline in visitors. Despite this, the upgraded parks continue to draw significant foot traffic, and the success is being celebrated as a major achievement by PHA.
