Yellappa Reddy urges Karnataka Chief Secretary to drop proposed 5% park land provision
Karnataka Forests, Ecology and Environment Secretary A.N. Yellappa Reddy has urged Chief Secretary to reconsider the proposed amendment to the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act
Karnataka Forests, Ecology and Environment Secretary A.N. Yellappa Reddy has urged Chief Secretary to reconsider the proposed amendment to the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Act, 1975, warning that allowing even 5% of protected park land for infrastructure could set a wider precedent. In a letter on August 23, Mr. Reddy said that the proposed 5% provision required detailed scrutiny and questioned whether it was backed by scientific studies or recommendations from ecologists, horticulturists, planners or other independent experts.
He said that Lalbagh’s ecological character could not be assessed merely through acreage or percentages, citing its old trees, soil, water systems, biodiversity and horticultural heritage. Reddy recalled that a proposal to construct Veera Soudha inside Lalbagh had earlier been reconsidered and located elsewhere, arguing that development should not come at the cost of established public parks.
He asked the Chief Secretary to examine the complete record, including the DPR, alternative alignments, tree and biodiversity studies, environmental assessments and reasons for rejecting alternatives. He also warned that accepting a 5%
diversion could eventually lead to larger portions being considered for other projects. Reddy urged the government to drop the proposal and said that he would seek legal accountability, if necessary, should the amendment proceed.
The BriefWire