Thousands march to protect Bengaluru's iconic Lalbagh from tunnel project

A large crowd assembled at the historic Lalbagh Botanical Park in Bengaluru on August 31, 2026, voicing strong opposition to the Parks Amendment Bill that could facilitate construction of a tunnel road through the garden. The rally underscored mounting public resistance to infrastructure plans perceived as threatening the ecological integrity of the 240-acre park, a cherished recreational and botanical landmark in the heart of the city.

The protestors, comprising environmental groups, horticulturists, and local residents, contended that the proposed amendments would set a dangerous precedent for urban green spaces across India. Concerns centered on potential damage to centuries-old trees, disruption of the park's unique microclimate, and compromise of its role as a biodiversity hotspot in an increasingly urbanized metropolis.

The Lalbagh Botanical Park, established in the 18th century, attracts thousands of visitors daily and serves as a vital repository of diverse flora species. The opposition to the tunnel project reflects broader anxieties about balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation in rapidly growing cities.

The demonstration comes amid heightened scrutiny of urban planning decisions in Bengaluru, where rapid expansion has strained existing green cover. Authorities have yet to formally respond to the public outcry, though the scale of Saturday's gathering signals significant political sensitivity around the issue.