Ranchi: A total footfall of 4,92,470 was recorded at the Lok Bhavan garden since it opened to the public on February 2, with 2,66,816 people turning out on Sunday alone.The garden, which was scheduled to remain open for visitors till February 8, will be open till February 15, following the directions of governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar. A Lok Bhavan notification said a decision was taken in this regard after considering the public enthusiasm and increasing crowd at the garden.
“The extension aims to provide more opportunities to residents to visit and experience the historic premises. The unprecedented footfall over the past week reflects keen public interest, with authorities continuing arrangements to ensure smooth and orderly visits during the extended period,” the statement said.The public can visit the garden from 10 am to 3 pm daily, with entry allowed through Gate No 2 after security checks until 1 pm.Spread over nearly 52 acres, the Lok Bhavan, constructed in 1930, houses the rose garden, which has around 100 varieties of the flower. Rare varieties such as green rose and green lips, along with popular ones like Aishwarya, Tata Century, Master Piece, Sonia, Lady X, Munmun, Paradise and Calcutta Kings, drew attention.Nilesh Raskar, a gardener at the Lok Bhavan, said, “People are especially fascinated by the rare rose varieties. Many visitors ask about the green rose and the green lips, as they are not commonly seen in public gardens. Maintaining such a large collection requires round-the-year care.”The visitors also praised the diverse attractions within the garden. Besides vibrant floral displays, the premises feature ornamental tanks, a large spinning wheel used during the India-Pakistan war, and flowers imported from abroad. The Shaheed Sthal (Murti Garden) is another major point of interest, drawing visitors who are keen to learn about the site’s historical and emotional significance.Gautam Kumar, a visitor from Ormanjhi, said, “It feels like a blend of history, nature and culture in one place. The arrangements are well maintained, and the experience is worth remembering,” she said.Rashmi Sharma, another visitor, said, “The opening of the garden to the public is a commendable initiative. Such heritage places should be opened more often. It gives citizens a chance to connect with history and nature.”
