BENGALURU, 11 FEB

Bengaluru witnessed a strong show of public resistance on Sunday as citizens gathered at Cubbon Park to protest the proposed construction of a 10-storey building by demolishing the existing heritage Karnataka State Bar Council and building.

Organised by the Cubbon Park Walkers Association (CPWA) and supported by environmental groups, the protest drew a diverse crowd united in their Opposition to the project.

Dr S Umesh Kumar, President of the CPWA, told Salar News “Cubbon Park is not just a park for us. This is a place where people who come to get away from the City’s hustles. If this construction takes place, it would not be the same for everyone. There is so much space other than here, why always target the heritage buildings?”

On 8 February, the Horticulture Department decided to permit vehicular movement at Cubbon Park on the second and fourth Saturdays, as a trial for three months, reversing the earlier ban on vehicular traffic. The State Government plans to build a 10-story annex for the Karnataka High Court within Cubbon Park.

The order allows vehicles to enter Cubbon Park from the High Court to Siddalingaiah Circle and vice versa on designated Saturdays, aiming to facilitate traffic flow and public convenience. However, many citizens oppose this move, advocating for the preservation of Cubbon Park as a vehicle-free zone.

Concerns voiced by protesters included the environmental impact of construction, increased traffic congestion, and the loss of green cover. Many emphasised the park's importance as a haven for recreation, exercise, and mental well-being, stressing that it should be preserved for future generations.

"Cubbon Park is not just a park; it's the lungs of our City, a vital sanctuary for both nature and the community. Allowing construction here sets a dangerous precedent, jeopardising the ecological balance and the unique character of this cherished space," said Saroja Rao, a long-time CPWA member.

The protest concluded peacefully. However, CPWA ensured that they will continue their campaign, exploring legal avenues and mobilising public pressure to ensure the park's protection.