Bengaluru’s Yelahanka to Gain Major Biodiversity Space

In a significant move to enhance the green cover and provide a much-needed ecological space, Yelahanka in North Bengaluru will soon have its own biodiversity park. Originally intended to be a Cubbon Park-like space, the state’s forest department has revised its plan to develop a comprehensive biodiversity park at the 153-acre eucalyptus plantation in Madappanahalli. This ambitious project will include a medicinal garden, aviary, zoo, and tree park, bringing a unique blend of nature and conservation efforts to the city’s northern region.

The forest minister, who visited the eucalyptus plantation recently, confirmed that work on this transformative project will begin by the end of November. He highlighted the absence of a large-scale green lung space in North Bengaluru, akin to the renowned Lalbagh Botanical Garden or Cubbon Park. In response to this gap, the upcoming Indira Gandhi Biodiversity Park, along with its associated attractions—Vishwaguru Basavanna Medicinal Garden, Dr BR Ambedkar Aviary, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Mini Zoo, and Saalumarada Thimmakka Tree Park—will provide much-needed respite for both the environment and the community.

With North Bengaluru rapidly developing, including the construction of hundreds of layouts and the Bangalore Development Authority’s (BDA) plan to distribute 25,000 plots in Dr Shivarama Karanth Layout, the park will cater to the needs of the growing population, expected to reach over 2 lakh in the near future. As urbanisation continues to expand, the creation of sustainable, eco-friendly spaces becomes imperative. This project is poised to provide an essential lung space for the region, contributing not only to improved air quality but also to the preservation of the city’s biodiversity.

From a sustainability perspective, the biodiversity park will serve as a crucial initiative in promoting environmental balance. Urban spaces like Bengaluru, which are facing increasing pressures from rapid development, require green zones to offset pollution and enhance the quality of life. The integration of a medicinal garden and tree park demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to urban development, blending conservation with civic needs. This project offers a sustainable solution that will protect biodiversity, provide educational opportunities, and enhance the ecological fabric of the city.