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Bengaluru parks face uncertainty as 5% levy bill draws criticism
✍️ The New Indian Express
🗓 30 Aug 2026, 11:33 AM
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A proposed 5% levy on Bengaluru’s public parks has come under scrutiny, raising concerns about the future management of green spaces in the city.
The Bengaluru municipal authorities have tabled a bill that would impose a 5% levy on the city’s public parks. The measure is intended to generate additional revenue for park maintenance and development, but it has quickly attracted criticism from environmental groups and local residents.
Critics argue that the levy could increase entry fees or reduce free access, undermining the city’s commitment to providing open green spaces for all citizens. They also question whether the additional funds will be transparently allocated to park upkeep rather than diverted to unrelated projects.
The municipal council has said the proposal is still under review and that public feedback will be taken into account before any final decision is made. Meanwhile, park users and advocacy groups are urging the authorities to reconsider the levy and explore alternative funding mechanisms that do not burden park visitors.
The debate highlights the broader challenge of balancing fiscal pressures with the need to preserve and enhance Bengaluru’s urban greenery, which remains a vital component of the city’s livability.
Critics argue that the levy could increase entry fees or reduce free access, undermining the city’s commitment to providing open green spaces for all citizens. They also question whether the additional funds will be transparently allocated to park upkeep rather than diverted to unrelated projects.
The municipal council has said the proposal is still under review and that public feedback will be taken into account before any final decision is made. Meanwhile, park users and advocacy groups are urging the authorities to reconsider the levy and explore alternative funding mechanisms that do not burden park visitors.
The debate highlights the broader challenge of balancing fiscal pressures with the need to preserve and enhance Bengaluru’s urban greenery, which remains a vital component of the city’s livability.