Karnataka Cabinet Approves Bill to Allow Use of portion of Park Land for Infrastructure

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, Aug. 23, 2026: The Karnataka Cabinet has approved amendments to the Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975, allowing a limited portion of parks and gardens to be used for public infrastructure and utility projects.

The proposed Bill permits up to 5% of a park or garden’s area to be utilised for projects such as roads and tunnels, subject to recommendations from a high-level committee headed by an Additional Chief Secretary-rank officer and comprising domain experts.

The amendment is significant for Bengaluru’s Cubbon Park and Lalbagh, which are protected under the Act. The government is expected to temporarily use about six acres and permanently acquire one acre of Lalbagh for the proposed 17-km tunnel road connecting Hebbal and Central Silk Board.

The Opposition BJP has strongly opposed the move. BJP MLA A.H. Suryas said the amendment was intended to facilitate the tunnel road project, which has been challenged in the High Court, while BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra termed the proposed Bill detrimental to the environment and citizens’ welfare.

The government said the 5% ceiling would include land previously alienated and that the proposed committee would ensure thorough evaluation before any park land is utilised.