BBMP to implement Climate Action Plan in select wards, focus on energy efficiency and parks

BBMP introduces Bengaluru Climate Action and Resilience Plan, focusing on climate interventions, energy conservation, and urban greenery.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has introduced the Bengaluru Climate Action and Resilience Plan (BCAP) for wards in its latest budget. One ward in each Legislative Assembly constituency will be selected for implementation in the 2025-26 fiscal year. Additionally, the budget underscores a strong focus on energy conservation measures across the city.

These initiatives aim to bring climate-focused interventions to the grassroots level, ensuring sustainable urban development across the city. The budget stated, “In order to implement the BCAP and focus on climate actions on the ground, one ward in every assembly constituency will be identified. For the realisation of the same, the outlay has set aside ₹28 crore.”

On the energy front, the budget proposed aligning its infrastructure with the Karnataka Energy Conservation Building Code (2018). As part of this, the BBMP will be taking up a public building energy audit, backed by ₹2 crore allocation, and assess efficiency in BBMP offices, schools, and health centre. The budget has also proposed solar rooftop installations and emission reduction measures.

To strengthen environmental efforts, BBMP’s Forest Wing will receive ₹51.69 crore for increasing green cover, urban forestry, and wildlife conservation. The civic body plans to plant and nurture five lakh saplings this year, leveraging CSR funds and community participation. Additionally, a wildlife rehabilitation unit at Bannerghatta Biological Park will become operational, alongside a dedicated team to address human-animal conflicts.

Urban greenery has also been prioritised in the budget. The budget has proposed establishment of 14 new parks that under the 15th Finance Commission grants, including a 20-acre park near Singapura Lake. To improve sustainability, composting units and 125 water storage tanks will be constructed for sewage treatment and irrigation.

A total of ₹92 crore has been earmarked for horticulture, park infrastructure, and playground upgrades, with another ₹118 crore dedicated to fencing, security, and overall park maintenance. Additionally, the long-awaited tree census will be completed this year to guide future conservation strategies.

The budget has also proposed to constitute Climate Action and Eco Clubs in schools to instill responsibility towards the environment. The budget stated that students from selected schools and colleges will be engaged in rainwater harvesting, kitchen gardening and solar rooftop panelling.