Transforming Urban Spaces : A Play-Themed and First-of-its-Kind Space for Adolescents in Bhubaneswar

06th Jan, 2025 (Odisha Tazanews) Bhubaneswar :->  Humara Bachpan Trust (HBT), in partnership with World Resources Institute (WRI) India and the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), has initiated the program Healthy Cities for Adolescents (HCA-II). This initiative aims to create safe, healthy, and vibrant public spaces while empowering adolescents as ‘Public Space Ambassadors’ who actively participate in urban planning and decision-making processes.

As part of this initiative, the Rajdhani College Frontage is being developed into a Model Adolescent-Friendly Public Space using Tactical Urbanism (TU) processes. Key elements include revitalizing the underpass, enhancing the statue area, and creating inviting seating spaces. Designed with the inputs from adolescents, these improvements aim to make the space more engaging and accessible. This site sets an example for future developments across Bhubaneswar.

A10-day celebration from January 2nd to January 12th, 2025, is bringing the play-themed TU site to life with a variety of engaging activities. The event, features workshops, competitions, cultural performances, and interactive games, creating an exciting space for adolescents to explore, participate, and give their feedback on how urban areas can better serve them.Adolescents are actively involved in creating 3D models and decorative items to make the space more attractive and useful.

On January 4th, 2025, as part of YUVASCAPE – 2025, key city officials, including Bhubaneswar Mayor Ms. Sulochana Das, the Corporator of Ward 50, Shri Ramarun Singh, along with Corporators from BMC Wards 51 and 67, the Zonal Deputy Commissioner (South West Zone), Junior Engineer, Ward Officer of Ward 50, and visited the site and adolescents briefed about the ongoing work.

During their experiential walk, they appreciated this innovative approach and encouraged adolescents to take ownership of urban transformation. This program is a step toward building a city where young people have a say in how their public spaces look and feel. HBT, WRI India, and BMC invite everyone to join in the celebrations and contribute to making Bhubaneswar a better place for adolescents .