Bhubaneswar, Dec 10: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has announced a major change in the operating hours of its parks. Responding to repeated requests from morning walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and visitors, the BDA has decided to keep all its parks open throughout the day on weekends—without the usual afternoon closure. The new schedule will come into force from December 13.

As per the revised timings, all BDA-managed parks will remain open from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, ensuring uninterrupted access for those who prefer to spend their weekends outdoors. This change is aimed at promoting recreational activities, improving public convenience, and encouraging citizens to make use of the city’s green spaces for leisure, fitness, and gatherings.

The Authority has also clarified that Indira Gandhi (IG) Park will follow timing of 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM on all days of the week, making it accessible throughout the day even on weekdays. For the remaining parks, weekday timings will continue as earlier—open from 5:00 AM to 11:30 AM and again from 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Updated timing boards will soon be displayed at the entrance of every park.

BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana said the decision was taken to enhance the recreational experience for city residents. “Keeping the parks open without an afternoon break on weekends will give people more flexibility to enjoy their time. We urge all visitors to maintain cleanliness and follow park rules,” he stated.

The BDA currently manages 50 prominent parks across Bhubaneswar, including IG Park, Biju Patnaik Park, APJ Abdul Kalam Park, Madhusudan Das Park, Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra Park, and Buddha Jayanti Park. On average, nearly 35,000 people visit these parks every day.

In addition, the BDA has initiated extensive maintenance and repainting work for play equipment in several parks to improve safety and enhance the overall visitor experience.