In Bengaluru, environmental activists have launched a signature campaign opposing the construction of a 6-lane flyover within Bannerghatta National Park. Named ‘Save Bannerghatta – Stop 6 Lane Flyover,’ the petition has garnered support from 16,606 individuals, with a goal of reaching 50,000 signatures.
The proposed flyover, part of the Satellite Township Ring Road (STRR), spans 3.85 km along the Bannerghatta to Jigani Road route. Concerns over the project primarily stem from its potential impact on the environment and wildlife. Activists have appealed to the National Highways Authority and the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) to reconsider the plan, which entails felling around 1,288 trees.
Despite receiving approval from the National Board of Wildlife (NBWL), the flyover’s construction could affect 27 acres, including 18 acres of protected forest and 14 acres in the park’s buffer zone. Critics argue that while intended to ease traffic congestion, the flyover threatens the delicate ecosystem of Bannerghatta, home to endangered species such as Asian elephants, Indian gaur, and sambar deer.
