📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Yathin S Krishnappa
Politics
Karnataka Government Reverses Park Entry Fee Increase Amid Public Outcry
✍️ India Today
🗓 05 Sep 2026, 01:03 AM
👁 27
The Karnataka state government has withdrawn the recently announced hike in entry fees for state parks following widespread criticism.
Bengaluru, Karnataka – The state cabinet announced on Monday that the planned increase in entry fees for several public parks will be scrapped. The decision comes after a wave of protests from citizens, environmental groups and opposition parties who argued that higher fees would deter visitors and undermine the purpose of public green spaces.
The fee hike, initially proposed in the previous month, was intended to generate additional revenue for park maintenance and infrastructure upgrades. However, critics pointed out that the state already allocates substantial funds for these purposes and that the move could disproportionately affect low‑income families.
Chief Minister's office issued a brief statement saying the reversal reflects the government's responsiveness to public sentiment and its commitment to making parks accessible to all. Officials will now explore alternative funding mechanisms, such as corporate sponsorships and targeted grants, to support park upkeep without burdening visitors.
Opposition leaders welcomed the rollback, calling it a victory for the people of Karnataka. Meanwhile, park authorities have been instructed to maintain current fee structures while reviewing long‑term sustainability plans.
The fee hike, initially proposed in the previous month, was intended to generate additional revenue for park maintenance and infrastructure upgrades. However, critics pointed out that the state already allocates substantial funds for these purposes and that the move could disproportionately affect low‑income families.
Chief Minister's office issued a brief statement saying the reversal reflects the government's responsiveness to public sentiment and its commitment to making parks accessible to all. Officials will now explore alternative funding mechanisms, such as corporate sponsorships and targeted grants, to support park upkeep without burdening visitors.
Opposition leaders welcomed the rollback, calling it a victory for the people of Karnataka. Meanwhile, park authorities have been instructed to maintain current fee structures while reviewing long‑term sustainability plans.