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Karnataka bans photo shoots, events, outside food in Bengaluru's Cubbon Park

Karnataka bans photo shoots, events, outside food in Bengaluru's Cubbon Park

India Today2 days ago

The Karnataka government has introduced strict new guidelines aimed at conserving Bengaluru's iconic Cubbon Park that come into immediate effect.The updated rules prohibit a range of activities, including commercial photo shoots, outside food, and public gatherings, to preserve the park's ecology and ensure public discipline.PHOTOGRAPHY BAN, FOOD RESTRICTIONSAll pre/post-wedding shoots, modeling sessions, baby photo shoots, short films, and Instagram reels are now banned. Only casual photography by visitors or nature documentation with official permission is allowed. Outside packaged snacks, plastic bottles, and bags are also prohibited. Violators will be fined Rs 500, with repeat offenders facing legal action.advertisementNO EVENTS WITHOUT APPROVAL
The government has also cracked down on unapproved public events. Activities such as birthday parties, press conferences, yoga or cycling training, and religious functions will not be allowed without prior permission from the Department of Horticulture. Even permitted gatherings must be non-commercial and limited in scale.NEW ACTIVITY ZONE CREATEDTo accommodate peaceful and small-scale activities, a special 15-acre zone near the BSNL gate has been designated. Visitors can engage in reading, yoga, meditation, art, or small gatherings in this area, but any group above 20 people must seek permission from the park's Deputy Director.WHAT'S STILL ALLOWEDSome activities will continue with restrictions. Walkathons, marathons, and public awareness programs may be held with official permission. Cycling is allowed between 8 am and 6 pm, but not for training purposes. Yoga and meditation in small non-commercial groups (under 10 people) are allowed with prior approval.STRICT PROHIBITIONS ENFORCEDadvertisementThe list of banned activities includes no smoking, alcohol, loudspeakers, hawkers, puja material, balloons, or play equipment. Visitors are also barred from climbing trees or decorative structures, damaging plants, or displaying banners. Begging, religious preaching, or collection of donations is not allowed.The government emphasised that these changes are the result of a Cubbon Park Conservation Committee meeting held in November 2024, chaired by senior officials from the Horticulture Department. The aim, officials said, is to curb the commercialisation and misuse of one of the city's most treasured green spaces.Fines collected from rule violations will go to the Suvarna Karnataka Udyavana Trust. The government also directed that these new rules be widely publicized to ensure public awareness and compliance.
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