A flagship example of sustainable urban greening and public health in Gujarat’s capital.
GANDHINAGAR (India CSR): In a landmark move to advance sustainable urban development and foster community well-being, the Zydus Foundation and Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the transformation and long-term maintenance of the Khoraj public park, now officially named the Zydus GMC Garden under Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
Spanning 55,000 square metres, the park is set to undergo a comprehensive redevelopment into a vibrant, eco-conscious, and inclusive public space. Under the seven-year agreement, Zydus Foundation will spearhead the initiative through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, aiming to cultivate healthier communities and greener urban landscapes.
The MoU was formally signed in Gandhinagar by GMC Commissioner J N Vaghela (IAS) and Ms Meha Patel, Vice Chairperson of the Zydus Foundation. The ceremony was graced by Shrimati Miraben Patel, Mayor of Gandhinagar, along with key dignitaries, including Gaurangbhai Vyas, Chairman of the Standing Committee; Anilsinh Vaghela, Chairman of the Garden Samiti; Shrimati Sonaliben Patel and B R Ahir, Deputy Municipal Commissioner.
Mayor Miraben Patel commended the partnership, stating, “This collaborative initiative is a commendable effort in promoting greener spaces and community health. I wish both parties all success in this endeavour.”
Commissioner Vaghela praised Zydus Foundation’s commitment to integrating wellness and sustainability into the park’s design. “Zydus’ dedication to equipping the park with features that support wellness and sustainability is truly noteworthy,” he remarked.
Ms Meha Patel highlighted the Foundation’s broader mission, “At Zydus, we are dedicated to life in all its forms, and community wellness is a vital aspect of that. Through this partnership with GMC, we are reimagining a space that nurtures physical and mental health while strengthening community bonds.”
Among the park’s standout features will be Gandhinagar’s first dedicated cycling track within a public park, age-specific play zones for children, adults, and seniors, a yoga deck for mindfulness practices, and locally crafted sculptures celebrating regional artistry.
Gaurang Vyas described the initiative as a model Public-Private Partnership (PPP), noting, “This project will serve as a benchmark for future collaborations, demonstrating how joint efforts can deliver lasting benefits to urban communities.”
The redesigned Zydus GMC Garden will emphasize inclusivity and ecological balance, featuring braille navigation maps, native tree landscaping guided by botanical experts, a tranquil zen garden, a butterfly garden with gazebos, an artificial lake with a bridge, and a maze garden for interactive exploration.
This transformative project aligns with the broader goals of urban greening and public health promotion, positioning the Zydus GMC Garden as a flagship example of sustainable development in Gujarat’s capital.
(India CSR)
