Fifth gate proposal at Lalbagh triggers public debate, officials clarify limited use

Authorities plan a new internal gate near the canteen to reduce vehicle congestion inside Lalbagh, but public concerns over environmental impact prompt officials to assure restricted access only for administrative traffic.

Plans to open an additional gate at Bengaluru’s iconic Lalbagh Botanical Garden have sparked debate among citizens, with many expressing concern over environmental impact and the necessity of another entry point. Lalbagh currently has four major gates, each serving one direction of the garden.

According to sources, authorities are considering constructing a new gate near the internal canteen area. The main objective behind this proposal is to regulate and reduce vehicle congestion inside the garden, particularly caused by official and administrative vehicles entering through the main public gates.

Lalbagh already functions with four prominent entrances: the Main Gate facing JC Road, the West Gate towards Basavanagudi, the East Gate on Double Road, and the North Gate near Siddapura. Despite these existing access points, officials observed a growing number of administrative and authorised vehicles entering through the main gates, often disturbing visitors and pedestrian movement.

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This prompted discussions on creating a separate access route exclusively for officials and staff. The proposed new gate aims to provide a dedicated path for administrative vehicles, thereby preventing disruption to tourists and walkers inside the garden.

However, the proposal has drawn objections from sections of the public. Many citizens argue that Lalbagh already has sufficient entry points and fear that adding another gate could harm the ecological balance of the historic botanical garden. Environmental concerns and the potential impact on greenery have been key reasons behind public opposition.

Clarifying the matter, Lalbagh Director told NewsFirst that the new gate is not intended for public entry. He stated that the gate would strictly serve administrative staff and official vehicles. Currently, vehicles claiming official access often enter through public gates, creating inconvenience for visitors. A separate gate would streamline movement and reduce crowding inside the garden.

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Officials also assured that the gate would be constructed only if necessary and in a manner that ensures no damage to Lalbagh’s environment, heritage value, or visitor experience.