Bhubaneswar, Dec 10: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has announced a significant revision in the operating hours of its parks, allowing uninterrupted access on weekends. Beginning December 13, all BDA-managed parks will remain open from 5 a.m. to 8.30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, eliminating the customary afternoon closure, officials said on Wednesday.

The decision follows repeated appeals from morning walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and families who frequent the city’s green spaces. Officials said the move is intended to promote recreational activities, improve public convenience, and encourage citizens to spend more time outdoors.

Indira Gandhi Park, one of the city’s most visited public spaces, will adopt extended hours throughout the week, remaining open daily from 5 a.m. to 8.30 p.m. Other parks will continue with the existing weekday schedule of 5 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Updated timing boards are expected to be installed at park entrances shortly.

Also Read: Bhubaneswar: BDA’s 151st Meeting Announces Major Urban Projects

BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana said the initiative was designed to enhance the recreational experience for 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 noted.

The Authority currently manages 50 prominent parks across Bhubaneswar, including Biju Patnaik Park, APJ Abdul Kalam Park, Madhusudan Das Park, Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra Park, and Buddha Jayanti Park. Collectively, these parks attract nearly 35,000 visitors daily, underscoring their importance as community hubs.

In addition to revising operating hours, the BDA has initiated maintenance and repainting of play equipment in several parks. Officials said the effort aims to improve safety standards and enhance the overall visitor experience.

The move is expected to benefit families, senior citizens, and young people alike, offering them greater flexibility to use the city’s green spaces for leisure, fitness, and social gatherings.