Guwahati: Bhupen Hazarika Park Locked Days After Inauguration, Public Left Baffled

Barely days after its grand inauguration, the Bhupen Hazarika Memorial Park at Chandmari’s Nizarapar in Guwahati has been mysteriously shut, leaving visitors—particularly children and families—disappointed and angry.

Inaugurated by Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah on July 7 in the presence of local MLA and other dignitaries, the park was touted as a major public attraction and a tribute to the legendary cultural icon Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. Built with funds from the Guwahati Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), the park was expected to offer a serene and well-maintained recreational space in the heart of the city.

However, within just a day of its public opening, the park's main entrance was locked without prior notice. Since then, citizens arriving at the gates—many with children in tow during the summer vacation—have had no choice but to turn back, visibly disheartened. Local residents report that the park has remained closed ever since, with no explanation offered by authorities.

“It was a moment of pride when the park opened. But now it feels like we were shown a dream only to wake up to disappointment,” said Ruma Kalita, a mother who had brought her two children to visit the park last week.

The abrupt closure has sparked speculation and criticism on social media, with many questioning how a newly inaugurated facility could become inaccessible so soon. Concerns have also emerged over incomplete construction and visible signs of neglect within the premises—despite the park being declared open to the public just a fortnight ago.

Sources suggest that finishing touches to the infrastructure, including internal landscaping and lighting systems, may still be pending, but no official statement has been issued either by GMDA or the Assam Tourism Department. The lack of transparency has added to the mystery surrounding the park's current status.

The Bhupen Hazarika Memorial Park was conceived as a cultural landmark dedicated to the memory of the iconic singer, lyricist, and humanist. The closure, many say, dishonours the legacy it was built to preserve.

“This isn’t just about a park. It’s about respect for Bhupen da’s memory and about civic accountability. You can’t open a project with ribbon-cutting and media glare and then lock the gates the next day,” said a local activist.

As public frustration grows, calls are mounting for the GMDA and concerned government departments to issue a formal clarification on the park’s condition and a clear timeline for when it will reopen. Until then, what was meant to be a symbol of pride now stands as a locked and silent monument—raising more questions than answers.

Also Read: Bhupen Hazarika Memorial Park Inaugurated in Chandmari