Ajmer's 'Wonders' Fade from Glory, End Up in Police Parking
Once a vibrant hub drawing crowds to its miniature global marvels, Ajmer's Seven Wonders Park, situated along the picturesque Anasagar Lake, now stands as a stark reminder of ambitious projects gone awry. The replicas that once captivated visitors, offering perfect photo opportunities, have met an unexpected fate.
Developed under the Smart City project with a hefty budget of ₹11.65 crore, the park quickly became a prime attraction. Families and tourists flocked to see the scaled-down versions of the world's seven wonders, making it a proud symbol of the city's modern appeal.
The Demolition and Lingering Debris
However, the park's journey took a sharp turn when it faced legal challenges. Constructed on a wetland in contravention of regulations, the Seven Wonders Park was ultimately demolished following a court order. Today, the debris from the dismantled replicas still lies scattered within the park premises, a testament to its abrupt end.
The story doesn't quite end there for some of these 'wonders'. Replicas of the Statue of Liberty and Christ the Redeemer, once grand attractions, have been moved from the park. They now reside in the parking area of the Haribhau Upadhyay Nagar Police Station building on Pushkar Road.
A Tale of Two Eras
Visitors to the police station might spot the Christ the Redeemer replica draped in a green tarpaulin, while the Statue of Liberty is wrapped in black plastic, gathering dust. These images paint a vivid picture of two distinct eras: one where the park buzzed with lights, tourists, and families, and another where these very replicas lie neglected, awaiting an uncertain future.
Their current state speaks volumes about incomplete urban plans and shifting priorities within the city's administration.
Suggestions for a Second Life
Instead of leaving these iconic replicas stored and covered for extended periods, there's a growing sentiment for their reuse. The administration could consider relocating the Christ the Redeemer replica to a church compound or installing the Statue of Liberty in a prominent city park or public space, giving them a new lease on life.
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