Bengaluru: Opponents of proposed tunnel road projects organised a relay-style cycle rally across the city Sunday to highlight their potential environmental and urban impacts. Organised by Lalbagh walkers and other citizen groups, the event saw participants cycle along multiple routes while raising awareness against the infrastructure plan.AN Yellappa Reddy, Rtd. IFS officer and secretary, forest, environment and ecology, Govt. of Karnataka, flagged off the Cycle Rally at Madiwala. The rally was held in four phases, connecting key locations, including Madiwala, Lalbagh, Ashoka Pillar, Freedom Park, Town Hall, Mekhri Circle, Hebbal and Silk Board. Organisers said the format allowed participants to join and relay the message across Bengaluru.A few cyclists completed the entire 34km route from Hebbal to Silk Board, while several others covered individual stretches, organisers said. Participants carried coloured ribbons and markers to highlight areas they believe could be affected by the proposed project.Members of the campaign argued that the project, envisaged as a major traffic solution, could come at the cost of existing green spaces, waterbodies and public infrastructure. They said the rally was part of a continuing series of awareness programmes intended to inform citizens about the long-term implications of tunnel-based road projects.Chipko movement for consultation on tunnel projectCitizens gathered in north Bengaluru Sunday to protest the proposed felling of 1,128 trees for the Hebbal short tunnel road project, forming human chains and hugging trees to highlight the scale of the environmental impact.Protesters said the 2.2-km tunnel, planned using the cut-and-cover method, would cut through several interconnected green spaces including the Hebbal Lake buffer zone, the Veterinary College campus, the tree park beneath the flyover and UAS staff quarters.According to citizens, over 70 tree species are at risk, including some heritage trees.Residents raised concerns that preparatory work has already begun affecting trees, with reports of branch cutting and excavation near tree roots. Calling for greater transparency, citizens demanded public access to the environmental impact assessment.RR Nagar residents oppose land for milk parlourBengaluru: Rajarajeshwari Nagar residents gathered Sunday to oppose the reported allocation of part of Balakrishna Ranga Mandira land for a Nandini Milk Parlour.Residents said BDA documents designated the site for a park and health centre. They feared more land could later be allotted for commercial activities.A petition has reportedly been signed by 300 residents, urging authorities to review the matter and ensure the land is utilised in accordance with approved plans.The claims made by the residents have not been independently verified, and the concerned officials were unavailable for comments.
