On any given afternoon, Ramna Park fills with life. Children run along shaded paths, parents chat under the trees, and families gather to escape the city’s noise and congestion.
For many Dhaka residents, the park remains one of the few public spaces where children can play freely. Yet behind the laughter and excitement, signs of neglect are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
The children’s playground, one of the park’s most popular attractions, now tells a worrying story. Several pieces of equipment show visible damage. Swings hang unusable with broken chains and missing seats.
A large slide bears cracks along its surface, while other rides display signs of wear, rust and deterioration.
For children, these are not merely broken toys. They are potential hazards. A damaged chain can snap without warning.
A cracked slide can cause injuries. Uneven or broken steps create risks for younger children who often climb and play without fully understanding the dangers around them.
The situation is made worse by a lack of regular maintenance. Equipment that appears to have been damaged for months remains accessible to visitors.
In some cases, children are seen attempting to use broken rides despite the obvious risks, often because there are no barriers or warning signs preventing access.
Another concern is the frequent use of children’s equipment by adults. Rides designed for small children are often occupied by older visitors, accelerating wear and tear and reducing their lifespan.
Without proper supervision or clear guidelines, the playground struggles to serve its intended purpose safely.
Public parks play an important role in a city’s social and physical well-being. They should offer children spaces that encourage play, learning and exploration without exposing them to unnecessary danger.
As one of Dhaka’s most cherished green spaces, Ramna Park deserves better maintenance and greater attention to safety.
After all, a playground should create memories of joy, not stories of preventable accidents.
