Rajendra Singh joins sapling-planting protest at BU Campus

A wave of concern swept across Bengaluru's environmentalist circles on Sunday morning, as activists staged a peaceful yet symbolic protest against the BBMP’s proposed skydeck project at the Jnanabharathi campus of Bangalore University. Leading the protest was renowned environmentalist and water conservationist Rajendra Singh, popularly known as the ‘Waterman of India’, who marked his presence by planting a sapling at the protest site.

The BBMP has planned the construction of a 250-metre-high skydeck in the verdant Jnanabharathi region, a move that has sparked fierce criticism from environmentalists. The proposed site is home to a rich ecosystem; hosting clusters of red cedar, teak, rudraksha, and bamboo, along with special zones like an orchidarium, a medicinal plant park, and a sandalwood tree park. Adding to the area’s ecological value, it supports over 175 species of birds, including peacocks, and is rich in groundwater reserves — accessible at a depth of just 200 feet due to existing kalyanis, open wells, and rainwater harvesting systems. Protesters fear that the skydeck project, if implemented, will lead to irreversible damage to this unique urban biodiversity hotspot.

This isn’t just about trees. It’s about preserving water sources, native species, and a natural heritage that Bengaluru cannot afford to lose, said one of the participating environmentalists. With growing public attention and experts voicing their concerns, the spotlight is now on BBMP to review the environmental impact of the project. Protesters have urged authorities to explore alternative locations and ensure that developmental projects do not come at the cost of ecological destruction.