B’luru Business Corridor to run 700 metres through reserve forest
The city of Bengaluru, known for its vibrant tech industry and bustling streets, is set to witness a significant development in its infrastructure with the long-delayed Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project. The PRR project, aimed at connecting Tumakuru Road with Hosur Road, will provide a much-needed boost to the city’s transportation network. However, this development comes with a cost, as a section of the Jarakabande Kaval reserve forest, one of north Bengaluru’s last remaining green pockets, will be affected by the project.
According to officials, a 700-metre elevated stretch of the corridor will cut through the forest, sparking concerns about the potential impact on the environment and the ecosystem of the reserve forest. The Jarakabande Kaval reserve forest is a vital part of Bengaluru’s green cover, providing a habitat for various species of flora and fauna. The forest also plays a crucial role in maintaining the city’s air quality and mitigating the effects of climate change.
The PRR project, which has been in the works for several years, is expected to reduce traffic congestion and travel time for commuters in the city. The project will provide an alternative route for vehicles, reducing the pressure on existing roads and improving the overall traffic flow. However, the project’s impact on the environment has been a topic of discussion among environmentalists and concerned citizens.
The decision to allow the PRR project to pass through the reserve forest has been met with opposition from environmental groups, who argue that the project will cause irreparable damage to the ecosystem. The groups have expressed concerns about the potential loss of biodiversity, noise pollution, and the impact on the forest’s delicate ecosystem. They have also questioned the need to construct an elevated stretch of the corridor through the forest, citing alternative routes that could have been explored.
Despite the concerns, officials have confirmed that the project will proceed as planned, with the 700-metre elevated stretch of the corridor cutting through the forest. The officials have assured that measures will be taken to minimize the impact on the environment, including the transplantation of trees and the creation of a green belt along the corridor. However, environmentalists remain skeptical, arguing that these measures will not be enough to mitigate the damage caused by the project.
The PRR project is not the only infrastructure development that has raised concerns about the impact on Bengaluru’s environment. The city has witnessed rapid growth and development in recent years, with several projects, including the construction of new roads, high-rise buildings, and industrial complexes, being undertaken. While these projects have contributed to the city’s economic growth, they have also taken a toll on the environment, with the city’s green cover and water bodies being affected.
The issue of balancing development with environmental concerns is a complex one, and it requires careful planning and consideration. The city’s authorities must ensure that development projects are undertaken in a sustainable and responsible manner, with adequate measures in place to mitigate the impact on the environment. This includes conducting thorough environmental impact assessments, consulting with stakeholders, and exploring alternative solutions that minimize harm to the environment.
In the case of the PRR project, it is essential that the authorities take a holistic approach, considering not just the project’s benefits but also its potential costs. The 700-metre elevated stretch of the corridor through the Jarakabande Kaval reserve forest is a significant concern, and it is crucial that measures are taken to minimize the impact on the environment. This includes not just transplanting trees and creating a green belt but also ensuring that the project is designed and implemented in a way that respects the forest’s ecosystem.
As Bengaluru continues to grow and develop, it is essential that the city’s authorities prioritize sustainability and environmental protection. The city’s residents, too, have a role to play, by raising awareness about environmental issues and advocating for responsible development. By working together, we can ensure that Bengaluru’s growth is balanced with the need to protect its environment, preserving the city’s natural beauty and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Source: https://newskarnataka.com/s/gdcpwm
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