Deccan Chronicle 26.11.2009

260 new parks to come up soon

Nov. 25: Bengaluru is set to regain its long-neglected identity of a ‘Garden City’ with the civic agencies planning to transform 260 open spaces into parks.

Transport minister R. Ashok, who released a souvenir on Bengaluru parks maintained by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the horticulture department at a seminar on beautification and environmental development of Bengaluru held here on Wednesday, said BBMP will convert 260 open spaces into parks in a phased manner soon.

Speaking at the event, experts in the civic administration admitted that the zoning and planning of Bengaluru city was not done in an environment-friendly manner.

The speakers including top BBMP officials, said rampant development has led to a dent in tree cover and rise in pollution besides dwindling ground water reserves. Speaking on the occasion, BBMP administrator K.M. Shivakumar said, “Civilisations have come to an end in the past due to environmental degradation. We must incorporate sustainable development. The residents must bring instances of encroachment to the notice of BBMP officials.”

Noted environmentalist A.N. Yellappa Reddy said the biodiversity management committee set up under his chairmanship has submitted a 200-page document on safeguarding city lakes and beautifying the parks. However, it is yet to be implemented.

“Nothing seems to come out of discussions with policy makers. The government must act swiftly before the city loses its remaining lakes. I have stressed on a ban on lawn culture which consumes a large amount of water and has no ecological value,” Mr Reddy said.