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Sir, 

It is learnt that the PBMC in their bid to beautify the town have also decided to widen the existing pedestrian / footpath in the Joggers Park to 1.5 mtrs and to also lay chequered tiles on the path. Further the Chairman has also ordered to set up a Snacks Bar in the Park premises.

With chequered tiles flooding the town, be it footpath, motor-able lanes, parking space and so on. I won’t be surprised if they decided to lay chequered tiles on the Sea bed for the Sea walkers too. 

Jogging is an activity that is as demanding as it is beneficial. It generates lot of strain on the Calves and Knees. Therefore, one should not jog on hard surface or tiles (chequered). Nothing should come between the Jogger and the Track.

That is why the Jogging Track surface is made using Eco-Flex rubberized polyurethane that has shock absorption properties to minimize stress level and reduce fatigue and help prevent unwanted injuries.

Hence, for works like these, experts from specialized departments with technical expertise should be consulted /involved.

As for the Snacks bar which is not really required at the Joggers Park but of course safe drinking water facility should be made available (not bottled).      

I am told that during the time when Jogger’s are not jogging, the Joggers Park transforms into a Lover’s Park. It has also been reported that tour operators/ drivers take their guests (tourists) to the Joggers Park which provide good parking space for them and serves as photography point for tourists who despite restrictions use the height of the park to shoot the “Photography Prohibited Air Strip” of the VSI Airport, Port Blair.  

The availability of Snacks will encourage more of such activities. If you still can’t see the future problem like the one at the Parking lot on the way to Marina Park where the PBMC had constructed two Snacks bar counter some years back. The conditions of the same can be inspected.    

Now, if you still decide to set up the Snacks bar, then I can only request you to see that it is kept open only during jogging hours and also assure that all Snacks/eatable sold are all low fat, low calories and chemical free food & drinks.  

Mukeshwar Lall