Bengaluru’s green heart under threat: Petition to keep Cubbon Park traffic-free on weekends

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Cubbon Park, with its 100 acres of green space, has long been the heart of Bengaluru. This urban oasis provides respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a sanctuary where people of all ages and backgrounds come to relax, exercise, and connect with nature. It’s a place cherished by all Bangaloreans, providing a safe and serene environment to recharge. However, recent reports suggest that the government is considering allowing traffic through Cubbon Park on all days, including weekends and public holidays, from 8 am to 10 am.

This is a stark contrast to the current policy that restricts traffic, giving the park its peaceful atmosphere on Sundays and holidays. This traffic free status has allowed citizens to enjoy the park's beauty and tranquillity, making it a haven for families, joggers, and nature lovers. Bangalore Rising has started a petition demanding to keep Cubbon Park traffic-free on Sundays and public holidays, ensuring its tranquillity and safety for all Bengaluru residents. The statement said, “The move to reintroduce traffic through Cubbon Park has raised concerns. According to an IISC report, traffic flow through the park has minimal impact on improving overall congestion in the city.” Furthermore, government offices, including the High Court, are closed on weekends, so there is little practical need for this access.

Cubbon Park is being reduced to a mere thoroughfare, undermining its role as a sanctuary for the public. Traffic would disrupt the park's calm, endangering pedestrians, cyclists, and children. The park should be preserved as a safe haven, not sacrificed for convenience. The petition calls for a rejection of these plans to bring back traffic on weekends, ensuring that Cubbon Park remains a peaceful retreat for all.