Ctg City Corporation to lease Thandachhori Park to pvt sector for modernisation, revenue boost

Chattogram City Corporation is set to lease Thandachhori Resort Park in Fateyabad to the private sector for 20 years to moderniseit into a high-quality entertainment centre and increase the corporation's revenue.

The corporation's Revenue Department, which manages the park, issued a tender on 13 August requiring a Tk3 crore pay-order security, a proposed design, an investment plan, and proof of prior experience. However, no applications were received by 28 August, and a new tender will be announced.

SM Sarwar Kamal, the corporation's chief revenue officer, told The Business Standard, "To modernise Thandachhori Park, we are seeking reputable institutions experienced in managing large projects to ensure a successful investment. 

"With private sector support, the city will gain a modern entertainment centre, while the corporation will secure a steady, gradually increasing revenue. At present, the park is overseen by a few caretakers, with occasional permissions granted to institutions for organising picnics."

Thandachhori Park, inaugurated on 24 April 2010 during the tenure of then-mayor ABM Mohiuddin Chowdhury, spans 32 acres, with 9.5 acres developed. Surrounded by hills, ponds, and an artificial lake, the park offers a tranquil natural setting with lush greenery, fruit gardens, and birdlife. 

Once known for boat rides, the park now charges Tk5,000 for fishing or picnics, while general entry remains free. Locals have expressed concerns that private management could introduce entry fees, limiting access for ordinary visitors.

An earlier attempt to lease the park in 2019 by then-mayor AJM Nasir Uddin was not implemented due to criticism.

Meanwhile, public access to four other city parks has been restricted due to closure or commercialisation.

Karnaphuli Shishu Park in Agrabad, developed in 1999 through Anondo Mela Limited, was to have its 25-year lease end in 2025. Following a government directive after 5 August 2024, the park remains closed. On-site observations show the main gate locked, overgrown grass, and scattered furniture. Security personnel said the management company instructed the closure.

Independence Complex Park, formerly Shaheed Zia Complex, redeveloped in 2006 over 11 acres with historic replicas, rides, and restaurants, suffered vandalism on 5–6 August 2024. Its leaseholder, Helal Uddin Sarkar (since 2016), went into hiding, leaving the park closed.

Chattogram Shishu Park, established in 1992 on three acres in Kazir Dewri and initially leased to Media Business Services Limited for 25 years, was re-leased in 2020 for 15 years. Allegations of antisocial activities led to demands for demolition, and in 2023, the district administration demolished it, citing lease violations.

Biplob Udyan, established in 1979 at Gate No 2 of the city, is partially commercially used, with 21 food stalls and two toilets. The mayor also signed a 25-year beautification agreement with private firm Nur Hafiz Properties.

Urban planners and the Chattogram Development Authority have warned that new concrete structures in these parks could reduce the city's green open spaces.