Bengaluru, known for Cubbon Park as its primary lung space, is now anticipating the realization of a longstanding dream—a sprawling 150-acre park near Yelahanka. A collaborative effort between the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the forest department, under the Brand Bengaluru initiative, has sparked renewed hope for green spaces in the city. As the proposal awaits approval from Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, residents and officials alike are optimistic about the positive impact this endeavor could have on the city’s environment.
Source: Bangalore Mirror
Full Story:
For years, the idea of constructing parks akin to Cubbon Park across Bengaluru has lingered in plans but failed to materialize. Now, a new proposal for a substantial 150-acre park near Yelahanka has emerged, bringing hope to residents longing for more green recreational spaces.
Collaborating under the Brand Bengaluru initiative, the BBMP and the forest department are driving this project forward. The proposal, currently under scrutiny, awaits the crucial approval from Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. Expressing concern over the diminishing greenery in the city, an official emphasized the need for accessible green spaces beyond Cubbon Park or Lalbagh, especially for those who cannot afford a daily visit to these iconic parks.
Source: Swarajya
The envisioned park is not just about adding more greenery but represents a strategic shift in focus. The plan includes planting more fruit-bearing and medicinal plants, departing from conventional species. An official involved in the initiative stated, “Brand Bengaluru, conceptualized by DK Shivakumar, encompasses various sectors such as health, education, transport, infrastructure, and more. Within the forest wing, the plan includes the construction of a park.”
Identifying potential lands in Yelahanka, Mahadevapura, KR Puram, and Bommanahalli, the project scouts around 150 acres, partly from the revenue and forest departments. Pending approval, the construction is set to commence with the aim of creating parks that mirror the serenity of Cubbon Park or Lalbagh. BBMP officials are keen on enhancing existing parks by committing to plant more medicinal plants. Their focus has shifted from traditional species like the Indian Beech Tree (Honge) and neem plants to increasing the presence of fruit-bearing trees, providing benefits to both avian life and the environment. Nurseries are already instructed to procure more such plants for park usage.
Source: Times of India
Residents, like Anita Chandrashekar from Yelahanka, welcomed the proposal with enthusiasm. She expressed, “The idea of a new park is fantastic as it provides more recreational space for the public. The city needs more green spaces, and a new park near Yelahanka would be a welcome addition, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Parks play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, and I look forward to the positive impact this new park could have on our environment.”
