Bhubaneswar, June 16: The development authority today inaugurated the city's first skating rink in what comes as music to the ears of sports enthusiasts here.

The skating rink, covering nearly 8,000sqft, has come up at Madhusudan Das Park in Pokhariput. Speaking at the inauguration event, the development authority's chief horticulturist A.N. Dhar said they were in the process of developing another rink at Buddha Jayanti Park at Niladri Vihar.

"Roller ball and roller skating-related activities have gained ground in the city in recent times. We are happy that youngsters are showing interest in sports and that is a welcome addition to normal city life," said Dhar.

Dhar said the proposed skating rink at Buddha Jayanti Park would cover 20,000sqft. "Based on the success of these rinks, we will propose the development of more such rinks at other parks," he said.

The skating rink was developed in association with the Odisha Skating Academyand Odisha Roll Ball Association The facility aims to popularise skating related activities across the city. , a resident of Patia present today at the skating rink#

Another resident, Sushree Ankita, said the administration was acting smart. "Different initiatives in city parks like open gyms and the skating rink have changed their definition. Earlier, it was only meant morning walks and leisurely evenings, but things have changed now," said the Nayapalli resident.

"We have successfully organised festivals such as Patha Utsav and Ekamra Walks to promote cycling, walking, skating and other healthy activities. These festivals gave us an insight into the mindset of citizens and we are committed to providing them the infrastructure," said mayor Ananta Narayan Jena.