Bhubaneswar: The development authority has decided to build a new park at Kalinga Vihar on the city's outskirts.

This will be the second park in the area, which will come up near the LIG Colony of K4 in Kalinga Nagar. An official said the park would facilities such as sitting areas, play zones for children and young adults and Rs 6.37 lakh would be spent to develop it.

"We have floated a tender to select an executor to develop the park in the area. The amount is allotted and the work will be completed within three months after awarding the contract," said an official of the development authority.

The authorities have identified an underutilised open space in the area to convert it into a full-fledged park. "The land had remained remained underutilised for a long time and keeping in mind the demands of the local residents, we have decided to convert the area into a proper park," said the official.

The residential area of Kalinga Nagar was developed by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority in the 90s but the area reeled from severe infrastructure issues including bad roads, improper drainage system, inadequate street lights, recreation facilities and parks.

"In 1994, the development authority had started the housing scheme at Kalinga Vihar and developed around 1,312 dwelling units in the categories of higher income group, middle income group, lower income group and economically weaker section. However, the developers never really care about the infrastructure," said Sitaram Mishra, a resident here.

People staying in the area have welcomed the latest move.

"Our area has long being neglected by the city authorities. There were no proper roads, street lights, community centres or parks. After repeated requests, we are beginning to get the services," said Dayanand Hota, a resident.