Meeting with CS on Traffic in Cubbon Park 23 Jan 2025
The meeting regarding traffic on Cubbonpark was held in Chief secretary Dr Shalini Rajneesh’s office at 12 noon on 23rd Jan . There were representatives from multiple stakeholders like traffic dept BBMP pollution board authority, transport dept , horticulture as well as citizens and Cubbon park preservation committee (PPC) Two MLAs Mr. Haris and Mr. Rizwan also were present. .
There is some grey area about what exactly is being asked for by the police. As far as the original letters are concerned, they’ve asked for traffic to be allowed on all holidays. We presume this means Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Subsequently a joint Commissioner Anuchet has clarified on a meeting witt Hort and PPC on 21st Jan that he’s only talking about First and third Saturdays, where the traffic is just as high as second and fourth Saturdays, thereby putting pressure on the traffic system. There was extensive discussion in the meeting, which was held in the horticulture office on this issue and focus on preserving common Park from traffic and the incremental benefit That’s such a intervention could make. While The citizens present could completely relate to issues of traffic growing, but had a stronger concern for the welfare and ecology of Cubbon Park as well as thousands of public who flock there on holidays to experience and enjoy the park. They stress that too much importance was given to metal and wheels moving around the city rather than the most vulnerable public, which is a human being with two legs as a form of transportation. Wheels vs legs is mo argument. The human pedestrian must be prioritized above all else and these small incremental changes should be secondary to the overall Issue of public good
Inputs were taken by CS from the traffic, police pollution board, Bbmp, the citizens and all views were discussed and presented. JC traffic shared that the additional time taken was between zero and 14 minutes if the park was closed. However, our citizen countered this with both an ISC n Dult study - and a C4C study, which showed very clearly that the average time was 1.5 minutes additional and it arranged on the various routes from 0 to 8 minutes . Whether it was eight or 14 minutes point of discussion was why was Cubbonpark used as a solution or thoroughfare at all. There are many places in Bangalore with one ways, etc. where people learn to work around it so why not here?Horticulture & citizens gave a spirited concern about why Cubbonpark was always targeted for resolving traffic given the fact that Lalbagh has been closed from the 70s and later on so has Vidhana Soudha and military park. The citizens presented that as traffic kept increasing Cubbonpark was not your only arterial Rd that Was a targeted solution. They emphasized Pradakshiney Haaki ( circumambulate the Park like a temple) and the reason to take Cubbonpark off the negotiating table as far as traffic was concerned and also to view Cubbonpark as a traffic island which traffic moves around rather than going through. Both MLAs were in agreement about this.
The Chief Secretary asserted that it was important to balance both perspectives of inconvenience to commuters and public the biodiversity of cubbon park as well as the public enjoyment of public space. MLA Harris also underlined the point that this was something that should be left untouched and people should work around the park since anyway, there is so much of traffic problems in the city MLA. Rizwan also tried to ascertain what was the volume of traffic and the timings of the park for public and vehicles. It was confirmed that the park is open from 630 to 8 for walkers without traffic and otherwise till 6:30 in the evening. However, vehicles were allowed between 8 AM to 10 PM every day (except holidays) and from 10 PM to 8 am there is no traffic allowed for both security and environmental reasons
The pollution board was not able to convey exact data on both noise emission as well as air pollution in around Cubbon Park as the nearest sensor board is on Church Street and for Lalbagh is at JayaNagar. Bbmp also confirmed that there has been no additional efforts made yet to improve the infrastructure around Cubbonpark for better traffic management. Horticulture and JC Traffic both went through the milestones as far as traffic is concerned from the early 1990s to date. The citizens particularly highlighted the attempt for traffic free Cubbonpark in other words specific closure of common park to all traffic that was almost confirmed in 2020 but reversed because of the traffic police Interpreting the High Court judgment as a suggestion and not a mandate. This is the demand of all citizens to declare common Park a traffic free zone just like Lalbagh is. And this is the long-term goal that Bangalore should adhere to. It cannot be tied to varying traffic milestones or constraints and VIP movement.
While many points were presented and discussed. The Chief Secretary was categoric that both park public and commuter public interests needed to be calibrated and certainly some effort must be made to address both sides of the picture. She suggested that traffic be introduced on a trial basis from 630 to 10pm ONLY on first and third Saturdays Leaving the other public holidays ie Sundays and 2/4th Saturdays to be traffic free. This was because of increased traffic on Saturday evenings, as noticed by the traffic police, she suggested that this could be discussed and done on a trial basis of three months to confirm the impact on traffic improvement, pollution levels, both noise and air, And also public foot falls and opinion so that it could be reviewed before going ahead. She stress the need for data and measurable inputs and metrics in order to arrive at some conclusion and requested the stakeholders immediately action providing the same. It was required for the pollution board to install sensors in public park so the level of pollution and air quality can be measured on a scientific basis. The traffic police should also monitor the volume of traffic in and out and alternative to Cubbonpark. Two police Chowki, which have remained unmanned inside Cubbonpark have to be quickly installed and meant. In addition, long pending promised and requirements of speed breakers road humps no honking and slow speed have to be strongly implemented .
A citizen suggested looking at alternative routes to ease traffic especially the route between Raja Ram Mohan Roy route and Kasturba Road through Kanteerva Stadium, which has hugely increased traffic to Hudson Circle and around as well . In addition it was suggested that the Link Road between MG Road and Cubbon Road next to the cricket stadium shd be opened up - which again takes a lot of traffic going into and around Cubbonpark. The JC traffic said that this road was under dispute between the military and the civil and the Chief Secretary said that she would intervene to get the road back for traffic at the earliest.
These two solutions would provide a huge plus to traffic in CBD and these excellent suggestions were well received by the Chief Secretary who would then speak to the department of youth and sports Kanteerva Stadium and the military for the Link Road. Perhaps after this Cubbon Park would remain out if bounds for traffic?
The Horticulture also was to repaired the large pollution unit installed at the Maharaj statue and also work closely with pollution board to install sensors for the same. Another citizen mentioned Eco sensor that had been installed in 2020 which can be revived to monitor the kind of pollution level levels during the course of the day.
The pollution board was also asked to check on vehicle pollution and the transport secretary was requested to implement this so that cars with high pollution levels could be find and stopped.
So despite strong vociferous and well researched objections from the citizens on pushing towards traffic free, Cubbonpark and requesting that Cubbonpark not be used as a thoroughfare by traffic in the future and by making Cubbonpark traffic island as suggested by top urban planners and the demand for Pradakshiney Haaki , the pressure of the commuters in traffic unfortunately took precedence with an introduction of trial three hours of traffic on first and third Saturdays.
The important thing is to have everything in place before it is restarted , second to ensure that all data and inputs are required in order to address this are covered, and third on an ongoing basis All stakeholders work together to look at the best solutions for traffic . We shouid be more receptive to citizens request to keep the Cubbon Park pristine and biodiversity intact by looking at alternative solutions. It was also suggested that surveys could be done to monitor the space a little better considering the impact on public
Meeting Summary
A meeting was held on January 23rd to discuss the possibility of resuming traffic on holidays in Cubbon Park. The meeting was attended by representatives from various stakeholders, including traffic police, BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike), pollution control board, transport department, horticulture department, citizens' groups, and the Cubbon Park Preservation Committee (PPC). MLAs Haris and Rizwan were also present.
Key Points Discussed
* Traffic congestion: The traffic police department believes that allowing traffic flow through Cubbon Park on holidays would alleviate traffic congestion on the surrounding roads.
* Public opposition: Citizens' groups and the PPC expressed strong opposition to the proposal, highlighting the importance of Cubbon Park as a green lung for the city and a space for public recreation. They argued that Lalbagh, another major park in Bangalore, is traffic-free, and Cubbon Park should be afforded the same privilege.
* Environmental concerns: The pollution control board was unable to provide data on noise and air pollution levels specifically around Cubbon Park due to a lack of nearby sensors. Citizens expressed concerns that increased traffic would lead to a decline in air and noise quality.
* Alternative solutions: Citizens suggested exploring alternative solutions to traffic congestion, such as improving public transportation and creating better traffic management strategies on roads surrounding Cubbon Park.
Meeting Outcome
The Chief Secretary acknowledged the need to balance the concerns of both commuters and those who want to preserve Cubbon Park as a traffic-free zone. As a compromise, she proposed a trial period of three months during which traffic would be allowed in Cubbon Park from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM only on the first and third Saturdays of each month. During this trial period, data on traffic flow, pollution levels, and public feedback will be collected. This data will be used to determine the long-term impact of allowing traffic in Cubbon Park.
Action Items
* The pollution control board will install sensors in Cubbon Park to monitor air and noise pollution levels.
* The traffic police will monitor traffic volume in and around Cubbon Park.
* The BBMP will explore improvements to traffic management infrastructure around Cubbon Park.
* The Horticulture Department will repair the pollution control unit at the Cubbon Park.
* The Chief Secretary will intervene to expedite the reopening of the Link Road between MG Road and Cubbon Road, which is currently under dispute between the military and the civil authorities.
Additional Information
* A petition on Change.org has been created by Bangalore Riding to oppose the resumption of traffic in Cubbon Park. You can find more information and express your views here: [link to the petition on Change.org].
* IISC (Indian Institute of Science) has conducted a study on the impact of traffic on Cubbon Park. The study suggests that allowing traffic flow through the park does not significantly improve traffic
Links
Online petition change.org/TrafficCubbonHoliday
IISC Study
IISc webinar
DULT Letter on traffic free Cubbon Park
C4C study on traffic increase
Press links
A few reasons for a traffic free cubbon park
There are thousands but lets take a few :
• Biodiversity
• Habitat Protection: Reduces habitat fragmentation and disturbance, species thrive.
• Air and Noise Pollution: Lessens pollution that harms plants and animals.
• Protected Species: Safeguards vulnerable species like birds and insects.
• Protecting Public Space
• Recreational Oasis: Provides a peaceful escape from urban chaos.
• Democratises the park – poor or rich have equal constitutional access to park
• Community Hub: Encourages social interaction and outdoor activities.
• Heritage Preservation: Protects historical structures and landscapes.
• Health & Well being
• Physical Activity: walking, running, biking, sports, helpscardiovascular health and obesity.
• Mental Health: reduce stress & anxiety, improves mood, and overall mental well-being.
• Social Interaction: people can socialize, interact, and build community connections.
• Stress Reduction: Calming effect of nature can lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone.
• Improved Cognitive Function: green spaces may improve cognitive abilities and focus.
• Environmental Quality: cleaner air and improved air quality, particularly in urban areas
• Noise Impact
• Reduced Noise Pollution: Creates a quieter environment for visitors and residents.
• Improved Health: Lessens stress and promotes relaxation.
• Enhanced Experience: Allows visitors to fully enjoy the park's natural beauty.
• Safety
• Reduced Accidents: Minimizes the risk of vehicle-pedestrian collisions.
• Safer Environment: Creates a more secure space for families and children.
• Prioritizes Pedestrians: Promotes a people-centeredapproach to urban planning.
• Traffic Impact
• Minimal Detour: Circumventing the park adds minimal travel time.
• Improved Traffic Flow: Can even reduce overall congestion in the area.
• Sustainable Transportation: Encourages walking, cycling, and public transport.
Milestones Regarding Traffic ban in Cubbon Park.
Date Particulars
02-05-1997 As per Hon'ble High Court order Police Commissioner banned heavy
vehicles inside the Cubbon Park and Speed limit 20 km/hr fixed
04-03-2011 Traffic Diverson inside Cubbon Park as the roads were closed due to
metro work from Chinnaswamy Stadium to Gopalgowda circle, Cubbon
road and Dr.Ambedkar road
20-11-2014 Auto Rickshaw movement banned inside the Park
23-04-2015 Banning all Traffic movement on Sundays inside the Cubbon Park on trial
basis started
04-11-2015 Traffic movement banned on second Saturday i.e. 14-11-2015 inside the
Cubbon Park (only for one day)
30-01-2016 Banning the Traffic movement inside Cubbon Park on every second
Saturdays and all Sundays
31-08-2016 The order of 04-03-2011 withdrawn due to completion of metro work
25-02-2017 Traffic Diverson inside Cubbon Park due to white topping from K.R. Circle
to Nrupatunga Road
09-05-2017 All the earlier orders pertaining to traffic movement inside the Cubbon Park
were withdrawn. Traffic movement restriction only on Sundays
13-06-2017 Meeting under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Directions to withdraw
the order dated: 09-05-2017 was given by Chief Secretary and it was also
decided to restrict traffic movement on second Saturdays, Sundays, three
National holidays (Independence day, Republic day and Gandhi Jayanthi)
and General holidays commonly applicable to public and private sector
20-08-2019 Proposal submitted from Directorate to Secretariat to ban the vehicular
movement on 4th Saturday, 3 National holidays and General holidays commonly applicable to public and private sector
20-09-2019 Proposal submitted to ACS (Home) from Secretariat to ban the vehicular
movement on 4th Saturday, 3 National holidays and General holidays commonly applicable to public and private sector
10-01-2020 Traffic banned on all the Sundays, Second & Fourth Saturday and all the
three National Holidays and General holidays applicable to public and private sector in common.
15-06-2020 Order pertaining to Declaration of one way, no honking zones and ban of
heavy vehicles movement
30-06-2020 Hon'ble Mayor of BBMP passed resolution to restrict the traffic movement
inside Cubbon Park on all the days
02-09-2020 DULT recommends to restrict traffic movement inside Cubbon park except
for pedestrians and cyclists
22-10- 2020 Order passed by Hon'ble High Court to consider the recommendation
dated:02-09-2020 in its proper perspective and in accordance with law
(Writ petition filed by Cubbon Park walkers association)
25-01-2021 Meeting held under the Chairmanship of the Chief Secretary to discuss
regarding banning the vehicles through Cubbon Park till 9.00 am and
closing the gate from Hudson circle. Police Commissioner, Bengaluru
raised concerns for both. As they would lead to traffic congestion
20-02-2021 Government decided to continue existing restriction for vehicular
movement in Cubbon Park and to drop implementing new restriction for
the time being.
01-07-2023 Proposal submitted by Police Department to make provision for vehicular
movement inside Cubbon Park during Public Holidays.
24-01-2024 Meeting held under the Chairmanship of The Chief Secretary, direction to open the main gates from High Court Entrance to Siddalingaiah Circle
and Siddalingaiah Circle to High Court Entrance Gate on Second and Fourth Saturday of every month.
08-02-2024 Order pertaining to the directions given by The Chief Secretary in the
meeting held on 24-01-2024 was issued by The Director, Department of
Horticulture to open the main gates from High Court Entrance to Siddalingaiah Circle and Siddalingaiah Circle to High Court Entrance
Gate on Second and Fourth Saturday of every month on trial basis for three months or till further order.
15-11-2024 Cubbon Park Conservation committee meating held "tir
13-11-2024 under the Chairmanship of Secretary, Department of
Horticulture. The Committee opined to withdraw the latest order dator
08-02-2024 issued by Director of Morticuiture, pertaining to traffic
movement in Cubbon park on Second & Fourth Saturdays of every month. The Committee also decided to close all the main gates on
Second & Fourth Saturdays and all Government Holidays to restrict vehicular movement inside Cubbon park. Except for the emergency
services such as Ambulance, Fire brigades and also to open main gateson special occasions, to avoid traffic congestion in peripheral roads of
Cubbon Park by developing co-ordination between Horticulture and concerned Police Department.
12-12-2024 Order pertaining to the proceedings drawn in the Cubbon park Conservation Committee meeting held on 13-11-2024 was issued by The Director, Department of Horticulture to close all the main gates on
Second & Fourth Saturdays and all Government Holidays to restrict vehicular movement inside Cubbon park. Except for the emergency
services such as Ambulance, Fire brigades and also to open main gates on special occasions by developing co-ordination between Horticulture
Department and concerned Police Department to avoid traffic congestion in peripheral roads of Cubbon Park untill further order.
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