Archive · 19 Sep 2025
Smritiban Park Controversy: Puja Committee vs. Walkers
A park in New Town, called Smritiban, became the center of a disagreement.
A group wanted to set up a religious event in the park, but the people who walk there every morning were against it.
The walkers were worried the event would damage the trees and quiet environment.
The organizers said they needed a spot for their event, as they did not have their own place.
After the walkers complained, the group had to move their event to a nearby street.
The issue showed different views on using the park's space and what matters more: the park’s quietness or having the puja there.
A puja committee planned to erect a pandal in Smritiban Park.
Morning walkers protested, citing concerns about tree felling and disruption.
Walkers contacted authorities and filed a petition against the puja.
Forest officials intervened, and the puja was moved.
The puja is now being held in a dead-end street next to the park.
- Who
- New Town BB Block Residents Welfare Society (puja committee) and morning walkers
- What
- Disagreement over erecting a Durga Puja pandal in Smritiban Park
- When
- September 12th (start of the dispute)
- Where
- Smritiban Park, New Town
- Why
- Walkers opposed potential damage to the park's greenery and ambiance; puja committee sought a central location for the puja
Morning Walkers
Puja Committee
Park Usage and Environment
Morning Walkers
The park should be preserved for its greenery and peaceful atmosphere. The puja could potentially harm the environment.
Puja Committee
The park's central location is ideal for the puja, and it would not cause harm to the trees.
Permission and Alternatives
Morning Walkers
The puja should not be held in the park, as it's disruptive. The group should find an alternate location.
Puja Committee
They applied for permission from several departments and have struggled to find a suitable alternate location, making the park's central location ideal.
- Location
- Smritiban Park, New Town, BB Block
- Event
- Attempted Durga Puja setup
- Dispute
- Puja committee wanted to erect pandal, morning walkers protested
- Outcome
- Puja moved to a dead-end street
- Park Access
- Free entry from 6-10am & 4-7pm