Bengaluru MP joins chorus to halt Cubbon Park art complex
Cubbon Park, a iconic green space in the heart of Bengaluru, is once again in the news, this time for a controversial proposal to establish an art park within its premises. The project, which has been met with widespread opposition, has gathered steam in recent weeks, with Bengaluru MP PC Mohan joining the chorus of voices urging the Karnataka government to halt the project.
According to sources, the proposal was first floated by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) in 2018, with the aim of creating a unique cultural and artistic space within the 300-acre park. The plan envisages the construction of several art galleries, museums, and performance spaces, as well as the installation of several sculptures and public art installations.
However, the proposal has been met with severe criticism from local residents, environmental groups, and even some officials, who claim that the project violates the Karnataka Government Parks Act, 1975. The Act clearly states that the primary purpose of government parks is to provide recreational spaces for the public, and that any development within the park must be done in a manner that does not compromise its natural beauty and functionality.
Bengaluru MP PC Mohan, who represents the city’s Central constituency, has been a vocal critic of the project, urging Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to halt the project until further notice. In a letter to the Chief Minister, Mohan expressed his concerns about the potential environmental and ecological impact of the project, as well as its potential to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the park.
Mohan’s concerns are shared by many others, including local residents who have been living in the surrounding areas for decades. “Cubbon Park is a sacred space for us, and we don’t want to see it commercialized or ruined by some fancy art project,” says Kavitha, a resident of the nearby locality. “We understand that the government wants to promote art and culture, but there are many other ways to do it without sacrificing the beauty and tranquility of the park.”
Environmental groups have also expressed their opposition to the project, citing concerns about the potential impact on the park’s ecosystem. “Cubbon Park is a vital green lung for the city, and it’s crucial that we protect it from any development that could harm its natural habitats,” says Dr. Shashi Kumar, an environmental activist. “The government must prioritize the conservation of our natural resources, rather than promoting commercial interests.”
Despite the opposition, the BDA has remained defiant, insisting that the project will go ahead as planned. “We understand that there may be some concerns, but we’re confident that we can work around them and create a unique and innovative space that will benefit the city and its citizens,” says a BDA official.
However, the Karnataka government has taken a more measured approach, assuring that the matter will be reviewed before any decision is taken. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has met with BDA officials and local residents to discuss the proposal, and has promised to take into account all the concerns and objections before making a final decision.
While the fate of the project remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the people of Bengaluru will not take this lying down. Whether it’s the MP, local residents, or environmental groups, everyone is united in their opposition to the project, and they’re determined to fight for the preservation of Cubbon Park’s natural beauty and tranquility.
As the debate continues, it’s clear that the future of Cubbon Park hangs in the balance. Will the government prioritize the commercial interests of the art complex, or will it listen to the voices of the people and preserve the park’s natural beauty? Only time will tell.
