Bhubaneswar: The urban development authority has introduced two acupressure walkways, a first-of-its-kind facility in the city, at Biju Patnaik Park here.
The Bhubaneswar Development Authority had already introduced open-air gyms at 26 city parks and skating rinks at Madhusudan Das Park and Buddha Jayanti Park.
Sources said work on the walkways, located at the centre of the park, started last November. The walkways are around 27m long and were opened on a pilot basis in February. The authorities have spent Rs 6.7 lakh on construction. The Biju Patnaik Park, also known as Forest Park, was chosen for the project since it is the biggest in the city and witnesses heavy footfall.
The park has every other basic facility, ranging from children's play area, open-air gymnasium, ornamental garden, benches, jogging paths and others, at present.
The development authority's chief horticulturist Ashokananda Dhar said the walkways were designed with soft, smooth, river rocks or cobblestone. "The walkways provide the experience of a unique massage to the feet as they stimulate acupressure points on the soles," said Dhar, adding that people would benefit immensely from the walkways.
A health expert said an acupressure point has two identities and ways of working. "The users should walk barefoot on these paths to get more benefit. Walking on such paths result in significant reduction in blood pressure and improvement in balance and physical performance, mainly among adults," said Sobhan Rath, a doctor.
A development authority official said they created the two pathways to provide a relaxing and comfortable experience.
"According to traditional practice, the Chinese indigenous healing system advocates the use of acupressure. It helps people keep their neuro-motor in balance," said an official.
Residents also welcomed the move and asked for more such facilities at other parks.
"I used to walk with my acupressure sandal following advise by my doctor. He also asked me to walk on such acupressure pathways, but I was unable to find one. I am happy that the authorities provided one for us," said Unit-VI resident Mamata Jena.
