Members of the Lalbagh Walkers’ Association and citizens in Bengaluru are staging a peaceful and silent protest against a planned underground tunnel road project in the city. The members are apparently hugging the ancient Lalbagh Rock as a sign of protecting the heritage site. Here’s what’s happening.
Bengaluru Citizens Hug Lalbagh Rock To Protest Against Road Project
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Bengaluru citizens on August 16 found a very unusual way to protest against the proposed Hebbal-Silk Board tunnel road project. The Lalbagh Walkers Association and other people hugged the iconic Lalbagh Rock, which is also called the Peninsular Gneiss rock, to express their opposition. According to them, this road project is damaging to the environment and heritage sites in the city. A video posted by Instagram user, @bangalorebro_ shows glimpses of the silent protest.
Most importantly, this iconic rock is a geological formation dating back millions of years and is most vulnerable to damage from blasting and excavation involved in tunnel construction. According to The Hindu, the peaceful protest was led by the Lalbagh Walkers’ Association, but it drew many other people too who were visiting the botanical garden for the ongoing flower show.
Many students and parents with children also joined the demonstration. Previously, citizens had also formed a human chain and displayed placards opposing the project.
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Citizens Plan More Protests Against The Project
The protest was not permitted by the police, which is why the citizens chose to express their feelings about the project silently. Association President S Umesh shared with The Hindu that Lalbagh is a symbol of the city and its lungs. According to him, the tunnel project will damage the garden’s beauty and will also harm the environment.
Reportedly, the members are also planning a large-scale protest at Freedom Park. Public interest litigation (PIL) petitions have also been filed against the project. They are scheduled for hearing before the High Court on August 20. The group absolutely does not want any development in the city which comes at the cost of the environment.
What are your thoughts on the peaceful protest in Bengaluru?
Cover Image Courtesy: @bangalorebro_/ Instagram
FAQs
Why is Lalbagh famous in Bengaluru?
Lalbagh is a famous botanical garden in Bengaluru. This heritage park is known for its plants and greenery.
Why are Bengaluru citizens hugging the Lalbagh Rock?
Citizens are hugging the rock as a peaceful way to protest against the proposed tunnel road project in Bengaluru.
What is Bengaluru known for?
Bengaluru is known for its technology industry, pleasant weather, gardens and an amazing food scene.
