by Eric Haurupma – EM TV, Port Moresby
National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop announced recently that Unagi Park will remain as a recreational land.
His statement comes after the National Court quashed the decision by Lands and Physical Planning Ministry to rezone the area for commercial use.
Speaking today in a press conference, Mr. Parkop said Unagi Park is recreational land for sporting and other activities.
He added that the recent move by former Lands and Physical Planning Minister to convert Unagi Park from open space to commercial rezoning was revoked by the National Court.
Mr. Parkop clarified that NCD Physical Planning is an independent body that took leverage in acquiring this land illegally for commercial use.
However, National Capital District Commission (NCDC) is the sole custodian to all the unused land in the city including Unagi Park.
“It is within its jurisdiction to develop and manage these lands. Like any cities around the world there must be reserve land available for city residents to use for leisure activities”.
Unagi Oval is no exception because residents from Moresby North-East are currently using it for sporting activities.
In order to acquire public land, people must understand and follow the right procedures to avoid illegal land grabbing.
NCD Governor thanked the people of NCD for succumbing and being in good terms with NCDC despite this stalemate situation.
Eric Haurupma is a UPNG journalism student.
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