BENGALURU: Former Karnataka forest, ecology and environment secretary AN Yellappa Reddy has urged Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh to reconsider and drop the proposed amendment to the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975, warning that allowing even 5% of park land to be diverted could set a dangerous precedent.
In a detailed letter to the chief secretary, the 90-year-old former IFS officer questioned the basis for fixing the 5% limit and sought clarity on whether it was backed by scientific studies or recommendations from horticulturists, ecologists, planners or an independent expert organisation.
“What is being presented as a limited 5% provision may appear harmless on paper, but its consequences can be much larger,” Reddy said, warning that an exception could gradually become an administrative practice.
Reddy specifically sought examination of the complete record behind the proposal, including the Detailed Project Report (DPR), alternative alignments, opinions of the horticulture department, tree and biodiversity studies, environmental assessments and the reasons for rejecting alternatives that prevent adverse impacts on Lalbagh.
Reddy cited the earlier proposal to construct Veera Soudha inside Lalbagh, which was eventually reconsidered and located elsewhere, as an example of how development could proceed without compromising important green spaces.
“Lalbagh cannot be measured merely in acres and percentages,” Reddy said, pointing to its old trees, soil, water systems, biodiversity and horticultural heritage. He also cautioned against a precedent that could see the permissible diversion increase from 5% to 10%, 20% or even 50% in future.
Reddy said Bengaluru’s parks already serve a public purpose by providing spaces for walking, exercise, recreation and access to nature amid increasing construction, traffic and pollution across the city. He urged the chief secretary to place the ecological consequences, alternatives and long-term implications before the government without fear or favour. He also sought an opportunity to meet Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and explain his concerns.
Reddy said he would consider approaching constitutional courts if the government proceeds with what he believes would compromise public green spaces.
