Bengaluru Plans Lalbagh-Style Tree Parks

Bengaluru is gearing up to establish five new tree parks, modeled after the renowned Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy has initiated the search for suitable locations, recently inspecting sites in the eastern and southern parts of the city.

In the initial phase, existing research stations and urban forest patches will be transformed into these new tree parks. This development includes clearing out eucalyptus and acacia plantations to make way for the new green spaces. The minister has emphasized the need for essential visitor amenities, such as toilets, and protective barriers to preserve the flora.

Locations like Kalkere Forest Arboretum and Doresanipalya Research Centre are slated for development into botanical gardens. Turahalli mini-forest and a state forest off Kanakapura Road, already partially open to the public, are also being considered for expansion. The minister assured that the rich biodiversity of Turahalli, including its fauna, would remain undisturbed.

The Kalkere Forest Arboretum, established in 1980, spans 30 hectares and showcases diverse forest types with over 4,700 trees. Doresanipalya Research Centre, dating back to 1974, covers 36.5 hectares and features experimental plots of various trees. The expansion of Turahalli mini-forest aims to add facilities for hiking and birdwatching, further promoting nature-based activities.