Rs 1.6crore revamp of neglected Hennur Biodiversity Park in Bengaluru finally takes off

Bengaluru: Once envisioned as a vibrant green lung space in north Bengaluru, Hennur Lake Biodiversity Park was grappling with poor maintenance, broken infrastructure and visible neglect for a long time. Now, much to relief of regular walkers, the revamp work worth Rs 1.6 crore hit the ground finally.Inaugurated in 2016 on a reclaimed lakebed, the park was designed with native and medicinal plants, walking trails and a central lake supporting birds and some wildlife. However, despite being a designated biodiversity park, many trees and plant species lack identification boards, and several appear unmaintained. Basic amenities had also deteriorated — benches are either broken or missing, and the absence of sufficient dustbins had led to garbage accumulation across the under-maintained park.All six washrooms within the park were unusable, with broken doors, damaged commodes and unhygienic conditions, making them inaccessible. Recreational areas, including the children's play zone, had also seen visible wear and tear. At the heart of the park lies a scenic lake, once its key attraction. Today, it is covered with thick green algae and filled with waste. Adding to the problem is an unfenced stretch along one side of the park, making it vulnerable to dumping of garbage from outside.A regular walker told TOI, "This is one of the city's good ung spaces amid a heavy traffic zone. It needs revamping to attract more walkers and families. The kids' play area is in the most neglected state as of now. I see a variety of trees which are not familiar to people, and if they are all named, that will be a great learning experience."Karnataka forest department officials acknowledged the need for urgent intervention. A detailed project report was prepared, and around Rs 1.6 crore allocated to revamp the park — marking the first major upgrade since its inauguration. The project aims not only to restore basic amenities but also to enhance the park's ecological and recreational value.Ravindra Kumar, DCF (urban), said, "Funds from our department have been released and we started work. We also have some CSR funds pooling in for the revamp."Revamp Plan:Rejuvenation of the lake using treated water and floating wetland systemsRepair and upgrade of existing gazebos and structuresInstallation of proper fencing to prevent garbage dumpingRestoration and repair of all washroomsNew walking paths and improved pathwaysDevelopment of an amphitheatreUpgraded children's play area and theme-based play zonesInstallation of outdoor gym and recreational facilitiesIntroduction of butterfly park, bamboo groves and herbal gardensAddition of tree signages, information boards and outdoor exhibitsImproved entrance infrastructure and water facilitiesMore dustbins and overall better waste management
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