Tucked away in the northern region of Mauritius, near Pamplemousses, lies the quaint village of Bois Rouge. This small community, situated between the Mahogany Shopping Promenade and the Anjalay stadium, boasts a unique charm. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where locals take the time to greet one another and engage in conversation. The village recently celebrated the inauguration of its new sports complex on August 24, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Local Collectivities and Terragri Ltd.
The new sports complex features a football field and a pétanque area, aiming to provide children and young people with easy access to sports facilities. Additionally, it serves as a new gathering spot for residents, fostering a sense of community. Future plans include further developments to complement the complex. Long-time residents and business owners shared their experiences, recalling the village's evolution over the years. They highlighted the impact of new developments, such as the Mahogany Shopping Promenade, and the changing landscape of Bois Rouge.
Vanisha Gopee, co-owner of the Beni Restaurant, has witnessed the village's transformation firsthand. Having grown up, gotten married, and still living in Bois Rouge, she notes the significant changes. The restaurant, a family-run business, has been serving customers for nine years, attracting visitors from across the island. Vanisha emphasizes the importance of community and the need for additional facilities, such as a kindergarten, a football school, or sports coaches. She also highlights concerns about road safety and traffic on the route Royale.
Sarika Munhurun, owner of the Kewlee & Son Shop, has lived in Bois Rouge for 30 years. She reminisces about the village's past, when fields of sugarcane dominated the landscape. As the area developed, new homes and businesses emerged, but Sarika values the village's tranquility and strong community bonds. She welcomes the new sports complex but notes the absence of a nearby pharmacy, which would greatly benefit residents.
Nanundan Bawol, proprietor of Bawol Supermarket, has a deep connection to Bois Rouge, having grown up in the area. He transformed an abandoned building into a thriving business in 2016, offering a variety of products to cater to the community's needs. Nanundan sees the sports complex as a positive addition but believes a community center for seniors would be a valuable asset.
As we continue to explore Bois Rouge, we come across a small, unmarked building that piques our curiosity. Nitish Soobhug, the owner, shares the story of his popular eatery, known for its delicious halim and gato delwil. The village's charm lies in its ability to preserve its unique character while adapting to the changing needs of its residents.
The residents and business owners of Bois Rouge share a common vision for their community: a balance between progress and preservation. As the village continues to evolve, they hope to see their aspirations realized, ensuring a bright future for this Mauritian village.
Key points
- - Bois Rouge's new sports complex aims to provide easy access to sports facilities for children and young people. - Residents and business owners value the village's community spirit and tranquility. - Future developments, such as a community center for seniors and improved road safety, are hoped to be implemented.
