Sat Oct 11 14:07:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by its transformation into a news article format:

**Summary:**

The Deputy Chief Minister of Bengaluru, D.K. Shivakumar, addressed concerns about the proposed Twin Tunnel Road project impacting Lalbagh, a major green space in the city. Following citizen concerns raised during a public walk, he assured that the project would acquire only half an acre of Lalbagh land, primarily for entry/exit points and temporary storage. He dismissed claims of a larger land grab and promised no trees would be felled. While stating the tunnel would pass underground and not harm the park, the precise path and potential impact on deep-rooted trees remain a concern for activists, particularly in the absence of a full environmental impact assessment.

**News Article:**

**Bengaluru’s Deputy CM Reassures Public: Lalbagh’s Greenery Safe from Twin Tunnel Road Project**

**Bengaluru, October 11, 2025** – Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar moved to allay fears regarding the impact of the proposed Twin Tunnel Road on Bengaluru’s iconic Lalbagh botanical garden. Speaking during a “Walk with Bengaluru” event on Saturday, Shivakumar addressed concerns raised by citizens, particularly senior residents, assuring them that the project would minimize its footprint on the park.

“This park belongs to the citizens. I am no one to touch it,” declared Shivakumar, responding to questions about potential land acquisition. He clarified that the project would only require approximately half an acre of land behind the rock hill, near Ashoka Pillar, for entry and exit points. A further acre would be used temporarily for construction storage, with the area being fully restored afterwards.

The Deputy CM emphasized that no trees would be felled as part of the project and any plants temporarily removed during construction would be replanted. He also refuted earlier reports suggesting that six acres of Lalbagh land would be acquired. Shivakumar explained that the tunnel itself would run underground, promising minimal disruption to the park.

However, concerns remain among environmental activists regarding the project’s potential long-term impact. While the Deputy CM stated that the tunnel wouldn’t damage the park, he did not specify if the tunnel would run directly underneath Lalbagh. Activists argue that the absence of a comprehensive environmental impact assessment makes it difficult to fully assess the potential effects on the park’s deep-rooted trees and delicate ecosystem. They urge the government to conduct a thorough study to ensure the preservation of Lalbagh for future generations.

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