South Bengaluru Parks get new timings to tackle misuse and complaints

South Corporation responds to public outcry with extended hours and maintenance slots

The Bengaluru South Corporation has introduced fresh guidelines for its parks, adjusting operating hours to address growing concerns over their misuse. This move comes after a barrage of complaints from residents highlighting how these green spaces have increasingly become venues for inappropriate behavior, prompting action from local authorities.

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For years, many parks in the city operated without strict time limits, with some staying open throughout the day. Previously, the standard schedule allowed access from 5 AM to 10 AM in the morning and 5 PM to 10 PM in the evening. However, this flexibility has led to issues, as parks turned into all-day hangouts for young people and students simply passing time. More alarmingly, they've been labeled as "lovers' spots" and hubs for immoral and illegal activities, causing discomfort and frustration for other visitors. Elders, women, and families have reported feeling embarrassed and irritated when trying to enjoy these public areas.

Complaints have poured in not just to the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officials but especially to the Bengaluru South Corporation, creating a "flood" of grievances. Local lawmakers and community members have been vocal, urging changes to restore the parks' intended purpose as safe, engaging spots for everyone. 

In light of this feedback, South Corporation Commissioner K.N. Ramesh has issued an order revising the timings. Effective immediately, parks under the corporation's jurisdiction will be open to the public from 5 AM to 11 AM in the morning and from 4 PM to 8 PM in the evening. This represents an extension: the morning slot now lasts an extra hour beyond the old 10 AM cutoff, while the evening session starts an hour earlier than the previous 5 PM. The gap between 11 AM and 4 PM will be dedicated exclusively to maintenance and cleaning, ensuring the spaces remain well-kept and less prone to misuse during quieter periods.

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Commissioner Ramesh explained the rationale behind the decision in a statement: "We've received numerous complaints from the public, including from lawmakers and locals, about parks being misused for immoral activities and illegal actions. By adjusting the timings, we aim to keep these areas actively engaged while allowing time for proper upkeep and sanitation. This will help make parks more welcoming for families."The changes apply specifically to parks in the Bengaluru South Corporation area, though similar concerns echo across the city. 

The commissioner's office emphasized that the revisions were made "as per public requests," underscoring a responsive governance model. With these new rules in place, Bengaluru's parks are set to become more family-oriented, reducing the "line of complaints" that had built up over time. 

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