A major political and environmental controversy has erupted in Karnataka following the passage of two key urban legislation bills during the recent state legislature session without formal debate. The Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, permits the state administration to alienate up to five percent of protected government park land for public utility and infrastructure projects. Additionally, amendments to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Land Transport Authority (BMLTA) Act grant retrospective validation to major urban mobility projects initiated during a specified window.
Critics, citizen groups, and opposition leaders allege that these legislative changes were specifically introduced to bypass legal hurdles and clear the route for the proposed 16.75-kilometre twin-tunnel road project connecting Hebbal to Central Silk Board. Environmental activists argue that diverting park land directly threatens historic lung spaces like Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park in Bengaluru. Over 5,000 citizens, environmentalists, and members of resident welfare associations gathered at Lalbagh under the banner 'Walk in Lalbagh. Walk for Lalbagh' to protest against the law and demand the complete preservation of urban green cover.
In response to mounting public backlash and representations submitted to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot requesting a review, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that the administration is open to examining public concerns. He reassured citizens that the state government aims to keep historical records transparent and balance infrastructure development with environmental preservation.
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