Former Official Urges Karnataka to Reconsider Park Land Amendment
The New Indian Express and The Hindu – World have reported that A.N. Yellappa Reddy, a former Karnataka forests, ecology and environment secretary, has written to Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh urging her to reconsider and drop a proposed amendment to the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975. The amendment would allow up to 5% of park land to be diverted for infrastructure purposes.
Reddy, described by The New Indian Express as a 90-year-old former Indian Forest Service officer, warned that allowing even a small portion of park land to be diverted could set a dangerous precedent. The Hindu noted his letter was dated August 23.
"What is being presented as a limited 5% provision may appear harmless on paper, but its consequences can be much larger," Reddy said, as quoted in The New Indian Express. He cautioned that an exception could gradually become an administrative practice, potentially leading to larger portions of park land being considered for other projects in the future.
Questioning the Basis for the 5% Limit
Both reports state that Reddy questioned whether the 5% provision was backed by any scientific studies or recommendations from experts such as horticulturists, ecologists, planners, or an independent expert organisation. He sought clarity on the rationale behind fixing the limit at 5%.
Reddy specifically asked the Chief Secretary to examine 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 could prevent adverse impacts on parks like Lalbagh.
Protecting Lalbagh's Ecological Heritage
Reddy argued that Lalbagh's ecological character could not be assessed merely through acreage or percentages, pointing to its old trees, soil, water systems, biodiversity, and horticultural heritage. He recalled that a previous proposal to construct Veera Soudha inside Lalbagh had been reconsidered and the structure located elsewhere, demonstrating that development could proceed without compromising public green spaces.
He argued that development should not come at the cost of established public parks, the reports said. Reddy also noted that Bengaluru's parks already serve an important public purpose, providing spaces for walking, exercise, recreation, and access to nature amid increasing construction, traffic, and pollution across the city, as reported by The New Indian Express.
Call for Thorough Consideration
Reddy urged the Chief Secretary to place the ecological consequences, alternatives, and long-term implications before the government without fear or favour, according to The New Indian Express. He also sought an opportunity to meet Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to explain his concerns.
Both outlets reported that Reddy said he would consider approaching constitutional courts if the government proceeds with what he believes would compromise public green spaces. The Hindu quoted him as saying he would seek legal accountability if necessary, while The New Indian Express reported his intention to consider litigation.
The amendment, as described, would alter the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975, but the exact scope or purpose of the proposed change was not detailed in the reports.
Summary
The former secretary's appeal highlights the concern that even a small diversion of park land could have far-reaching consequences. Regulatory measures to protect green spaces are under review, with Reddy leading opposition to the 5% provision. The government has been urged to reconsider, and Reddy has said he is prepared to take legal action if the amendment proceeds.