Bengaluru to Breathe Easier: Massive 153-Acre Eco Park Coming to Madappanahalli

For the first time in over 150 years, Bengaluru is set to welcome a new urban oasis—an expansive 153-acre ecological park in Madappanahalli, near Yelahanka. This ambitious green initiative is poised to become the city's third major urban park, joining the iconic Lalbagh and Cubbon Park.

A Green Revolution in North Bengaluru

The Forest, Ecology, and Environment Minister, Eshwar B. Khandre, announced the plan during a Forest Department event on Sunday. The land, currently under the Karnataka Forest Development Corporation (KFDC), is being returned to the Forest Department to kick off the development.

With North Bengaluru rapidly urbanizing, this park aims to serve both environmental and recreational needs of local residents. “This will be a game-changer for the city’s green cover,” said Minister Khandre.

From Eucalyptus to Indigenous Ecosystem

Currently dominated by eucalyptus plantations, the area will undergo a complete transformation. These non-native trees will be cleared to make space for indigenous species like bilva, mahabhilva, honne, nerale, matthi, banyan, and peepal. Native species from the Western Ghats will also be introduced to boost biodiversity and support ecological restoration.

More Than a Park – A Living Classroom

This mega park is being designed as both a recreational and educational space. Planned features include:

Indira Gandhi Botanical Garden

Basavanna Medicinal Plant Grove

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Bird Sanctuary

Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Mini Zoo

A diverse Tree Garden

To protect the land, fencing is already complete, ensuring the area is safeguarded from encroachments.

Honoring the Legacy of Lalbagh & Cubbon Park

Minister Khandre reflected on Bengaluru’s proud heritage of green spaces. Lalbagh began as Kempegowda’s private garden and was expanded by Hyder Ali in 1760. Cubbon Park was established in 1870 under the direction of then Mysore Commissioner John Meade.

“While smaller parks have come up over the years, nothing on this scale has been attempted in more than a century,” Khandre noted. “This project marks a historic moment—it will be Bengaluru’s third major urban lung.”

Timeline & Investment

The eco-park will be developed in phases with an initial investment of ₹20 crore. The government aims to complete the project in three years, with a formal groundbreaking ceremony expected in the next two months. Both the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister are expected to attend.

“This park will not only enhance biodiversity but also become a sought-after escape for the thousands living in and around Yelahanka,” Khandre emphasized.

Who Was Present?

The event saw attendance from several key officials including:

Manohar, Chairman, The Mysore Electrical Industries Ltd

Meenakshi Negi, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests

Subhash Malkade, Chief Wildlife Warden

Mahesh Shirur, Managing Director, KFDC

Seema Garg and Shashwati Mishra, Senior Forest Officials

With this transformative project, Bengaluru reaffirms its reputation as India’s Garden City—this time, with a bold, modern green vision for the future.