Rock Garden Neglected, Activist Urges Administrator’s Action

Chandigarh:The city’s iconic Rock Garden, a symbol of creative brilliance and cultural pride, is facing neglect and slow deterioration — prompting concerned citizens to speak up. On Monday, well-known social activist Praveen Garg wrote an open letter to the UT Administrator, demanding urgent attention to the preservation and maintenance of the historic site.

In his letter, Garg highlighted multiple areas of concern, including broken boundary walls, poor upkeep of sculptures, and unauthorized construction around sensitive zones of the Rock Garden. He alleged that despite being a globally recognized tourist destination, the monument has been suffering due to administrative apathy.

Garg expressed particular concern over recent construction activity inside the premises, where workers were seen reconstructing a section of the broken wall without following heritage conservation norms. “This is not just any public park. Rock Garden is a living art museum that deserves to be treated with care and respect,” he wrote. He added that if such disregard continues, the garden may lose its UNESCO heritage nomination potential.

The activist also pointed out that signboards and art installations in several parts of the garden are either damaged or missing. Drainage issues and poorly maintained pathways are making it difficult for tourists, especially senior citizens, to navigate the area safely.

Tourists visiting the site recently echoed similar sentiments. Many described their disappointment at seeing iconic sculptures covered in dust, overgrown plants intruding into walkways, and litter in corners that once stood as artistic marvels.

The Rock Garden, created by Nek Chand, is one of Chandigarh’s most celebrated landmarks, attracting lakhs of visitors every year. Built using industrial and domestic waste, it represents environmental consciousness and artistic ingenuity. However, as per Garg and other local heritage lovers, the lack of structured maintenance could undo decades of effort and artistic vision.

He has urged the UT Administration to constitute a dedicated heritage maintenance task force and involve experts in art conservation. “We cannot afford to lose a cultural treasure to indifference,” Garg concluded.