Koraput: Rayagada Municipality has transformed discarded waste materials into a unique public attraction with the development of a waste-to-wonder park at Antariguda, showcasing environmental sustainability.Located around 3km from the district headquarters town of Rayagada, the eco-friendly park was developed using old tyres, scrap metal, plastic waste, unused vehicle parts and other discarded materials. The park features a variety of artistic sculptures, innovative installations and environment-themed displays that convey the message of sustainable waste management and the importance of the 3R principle: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.Rayagada collector Ashutosh Kulkarni said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to environmental conservation and innovative urban development.“The park is a fine example of how discarded materials can be transformed into valuable public assets. Besides promoting environmental awareness, the park offers an engaging space for recreation and learning. We hope it inspires citizens, especially young people, to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives,” the collector said.One of the major attractions of the park is the display of decommissioned municipal vehicles, including waste-collection and segregation vehicles, tractors, dumpers, scooters and mopeds. These vehicles were preserved and exhibited to showcase the evolution of solid waste management practices in Rayagada Municipality over the years.The park also includes landscaped gardens, walking pathways, seating areas and educational exhibits, also making it an ideal learning destination for students and other visitors.Rayagada Municipality executive officer Kuldeep Kumar said the project was aimed at demonstrating that waste can be converted into resources through creativity and proper management.“Instead of allowing these discarded materials and old municipal vehicles to go to scrap, we decided to repurpose them in a meaningful way,” he said.Local resident S Ramesh, who recently visited the park with his family, appreciated the initiative. “It is inspiring to see waste materials being converted into beautiful sculptures and displays. The park is different from other public spaces, and teaches an important lesson about protecting the environment,” he said.Officials said the park is expected to emerge as a popular attraction in Rayagada.
