To commemorate the 75th year of country’s Independence, Maha Metro is converting about 40,000 square feet area surrounding Zero Mile station into a public park named Freedom Park.
The very aesthetically done park is a perfect example of urban landscaping, which comprises History Wall, War Trophy – T55 Battle Tank, amphitheatre, Nagpur Metro’s Information Centre, stepped plaza, Arches of Glory, seating plaza and plaza entrance areas. The park is in completion stages.
The location of Freedom Park has been chosen in view of the historical importance. It is near the Zero Mile monument, Sitabuldi Fort, Vidhan Bhavan, Central Museum, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other iconic and historical buildings of the city.
Upon entering the Freedom Park from the southern gate, one is welcomed by landscaped bosque (wooded) plaza right in the front. One has the magnificent view of the expansive amphitheatre on the left, the History Wall which continues up to the Shahid Smarak laying a perfect setting for display of events of freedom struggle in form of a timeline and the War Trophy of T-55 Indian Army Battle Tank – standing proudly opposite to it on a raised pedestal.
• #NAGPURMETRO : It also exhibits a beautiful cascading water fall with ribbed laminar flow of water on three levels, which glow proudly in the tricolour. Adjacent to the cascade, lies an artwork ‘#NAGPURMETRO’.
• T-55 Tank : The T-55 tank has been given by Ministry of Defence to Maha Metro as a war trophy to symbolize the valour of the Indian Army in various wars. The T-55 tanks were introduced by Russia in the years following the Second World War. The Indian Army used the T-55s extensively in its conflicts with Pakistan in 1970s and 1980s.
• History wall : The History wall proudly displays the events related to freedom struggle from the first war of independence until the achievement of freedom in 1947, associated with Nagpur city. The distances of these historical spots from the Freedom Park are mentioned. It also highlights the importance of Zero Mile Pillar, foundation of Nagpur city and the history of Sitabuldi Fort. The landscaping comprises of wayfinding and subtle branding spaces and colour and theme-based planting.
• Amphitheatre: The amphitheatre is a performance space where cultural activities related to history of the city or any other topic can be held. It is also a leisure space where people can sit and enjoy the natural beauty.
• Arches of Glory : There are three Arches of Glory whose crowns (high points) signify the zeniths of our Independence struggle from 1857 to 1947.
• Nagpur metro’s Information Centre : Nagpur metro’s Information Centre has been very aptly located for dissemination of information pertaining to Metro’s development and operations. One is also able to visualize the heritage monument of Old British Residency upfront from the lower plaza, which is located just behind the Freedom Park.
Architectural lighting, ample sitting spaces and public art – particularly on the viaduct piers within Freedom Park development makes it a delightful public place even in evening hours. The secure precincts encourage citizens to spend unhindered quality time with their families and loved ones in this especially crafted public place.
Apart from providing much needed open public space in the city – especially next to one of the busiest metro stations, the Freedom Park provides citizens with an opportunity to relax and enjoy the nature.
