The Nagpur Forest Department is currently undertaking extensive renovations at ‘Balodyan’ (Van Udyan) in Seminary Hills to appeal to more nature enthusiasts. The garden, a significant draw for tourists and local morning walkers alike, boasts rich biodiversity. However, it hasn’t been looked after well by the department for a while.
The Forest Department is refurbishing the garden to cater to children and tourists who are drawn to its natural allure. Dr. Bharat Singh Hada, Deputy Conservator of Forest in Nagpur, stated to city media that approximately Rs 4 crore has been invested in renovating Balodyan and the stations of ‘Vanbala’. He expects the work to finish in the next 15 days, and the garden will reopen to visitors two weeks after that.
Vanbala, the toy train, a symbol of pride in the Seminary Hills forest and a source of joy for children at Balodyan, has recently resumed operation. To reintroduce this attraction to the children of Nagpur, the Forest Department invested approximately Rs 70-80 lakh. The refurbished Balodyan will have new rides, walking trails, and a food court, alongside the rejuvenated Vanbala, offering daily joy rides from 10 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 6 pm, excluding Mondays. Ticket prices are Rs 20 for children and Rs 50 for adults.
A decade ago, this toy train was a prominent tourist attraction in the city. However, over time, it lost its charm due to inadequate maintenance by the department. “Vanbala is a significant draw at Balodyan, and it is receiving an overwhelming response.