The Karnataka High Court has sought a Geological Survey of India (GSI) report regarding the impact of the tunnel road project on the ancient Peninsular Gneiss in Lal Bagh and demanded clarity on Hebbal Lake's water flow.

  • The Court requested the GSI report on the impact of the 16.75-km tunnel project on Lal Bagh's National Geological Monument.
  • Engineers must present measures to ensure Hebbal Lake's inflow and outflow remain unobstructed.
  • The project is facing legal challenges via multiple PILs regarding environmental and legal compliance.

The Karnataka High Court on Thursday issued significant directions regarding the proposed 16.75-km tunnel road project connecting Hebbal and Silk Board junctions. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice K.S. Hemalekha directed authorities to submit the Geological Survey of India (GSI) report concerning the project's impact on the 3-billion-year-old Peninsular Gneiss located in Lal Bagh.

The Peninsular Gneiss in Lal Bagh holds immense scientific value and has been officially declared a National Geological Monument by the GSI. The court's intervention aims to safeguard this ancient geological heritage from the potential disruptions caused by massive underground construction.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this legal battle represents a critical intersection between rapid urban infrastructure expansion and the preservation of irreplaceable ecological and geological assets. The outcome will set a precedent for how Bengaluru balances its 'Smart City' ambitions with environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, the court has mandated a technical presentation from engineers to address concerns regarding the 2.2-km twin tunnel from Hebbal junction to Ballari road. The primary concern is whether this construction will obstruct the natural inflow and outflow of water into Hebbal Lake.

Infrastructure development must not come at the cost of irreversible geological and hydrological damage.

Representing petitioners, advocate Sneha Nagaraj argued that the project could potentially divert 3.4 acres of Hebbal Lake land, which would violate existing laws. In response, State Advocate General K. Shashi Kiran Shetty denied these claims, asserting that the work would occur below the lake's buffer zone without affecting its water sources.

Historical Background

The Peninsular Gneiss is part of the ancient geological fabric of India, dating back billions of years. Protecting such monuments is vital for scientific research and maintaining the natural equilibrium of urban ecosystems like Bengaluru.

Did You Know?: The Peninsular Gneiss in Lal Bagh is one of the oldest rock formations on Earth, estimated to be nearly 3 billion years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the core issue being heard by the High Court?
The court is examining the legality and environmental impact of the tunnel road project on Lal Bagh's geological monument and Hebbal Lake.

2. Who is challenging the project?
The project is being challenged through PILs by technocrats, environmentalists, and local residents.