Unsafe In Safe Thoughts

As urbanization increases, the population grows while greenery and open spaces continue to decrease.

Parks have become some of the few places where children can play, elderly people can relax, and families can spend quality time together.

When we think of a park, we imagine a green, fresh, and healthy environment. In our community, many parks already exist, and more are under construction.

For people living inside the Kathmandu Valley, parks provide a valuable space for recreation, exercise, and peace. However, while visiting Sankhamul Park, I witnessed a troubling scene.

Children were playing nearby, and elderly people were spending their free time in the park.

At the same time, some people were burning green plants and waste inside the park premises. What should have been a safe and healthy environment was filled with smoke and polluted air.

Burning waste and vegetation releases harmful pollutants that can affect everyone nearby, especially children and older adults, whose respiratory systems are more vulnerable. Parks are built to improve public health and well-being, not to expose people to pollution.

While local authorities are making efforts to create more green spaces, protecting these areas from harmful practices is equally important. A park should be a place where children can run, play, and breathe fresh air without worrying about pollution.

If we truly want healthier communities, we must ensure that the spaces designed for recreation remain safe for everyone.