Bengaluru Citizens Rally Against 5% Park Land Diversion Rule
What Happened
Hundreds of Bengaluru residents gathered at Lalbagh Botanical Garden under the campaign“Walk in Lalbagh. Walk for Lalbagh” to protest the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The amendment allows up to 5% of protected government park land to be used for public utility and infrastructure projects. Protesters fear the move could impact iconic green spaces such as Lalbagh and Cubbon Park.
Key Takeaways
Opponents argue that the amendment could open the door to the diversion of park land for projects including Bengaluru's proposed tunnel road. Supporters of the protests are demanding the withdrawal of the amendment and stronger protection for the city's shrinking green spaces.