LUCKNOW, May 25 -- The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has begun work on the city's first Ayurveda-themed park in Basant Kunj, offering residents a unique blend of health, heritage, and recreation. Spread over 6.5 acres, the park will feature medicinal plants, statues of ancient Vaidyas, and a Veda library, aimed at promoting traditional wellness practices among the public. LDA vice-chairman Prathamesh Kumar, inspected the site on Saturday and directed officials to expedite construction work. "This park will serve as a centre for health awareness, especially among youth and families," he said. Kumar added that the project, estimated at Rs 10 crore, will include an open gym, kids play area, amphitheatre, water body, canteen, gazebo, and a 1,000-metre pathway. To educate visitors, the park will feature life-size statues of renowned Indian Ayurvedacharyas Charak, Sushruta, and Vagbhata. A dedicated Veda library will share knowledge of Ayurveda and its benefits with the general public. Over 20 types of medicinal plants-like tulsi, giloy, brahmi, aloe vera, turmeric, and ashwagandha-will be cultivated for public learning and awareness. Kumar also visited Sector-D of Basant Kunj, where illegal occupation was reported on Nazul land registered as a green belt. "Free this land within 10 days," he instructed officials, adding that a nursery and a mango orchard with 60 varieties of desi and hybrid mangoes be developed for public use and biodiversity conservation. Responding to public requests at Joggers Park on Hardoi Road, Kumar ordered construction of a yoga hut for morning walkers. HTC...