Study Warns Hebbal Tunnel Project Threatens Habitat of 199 Bird Species

The study, conducted by a local university’s ecology department, mapped the tunnel’s alignment against the existing green belt that serves as a migratory stopover and breeding ground for a diverse array of birds. Researchers documented the presence of several threatened species whose survival depends on the continuity of the habitat. The tunnel’s construction would entail clearing vegetation, altering water flow and increasing noise, all of which could fragment the corridor and diminish food resources.

Proponents of the tunnel argue that it will alleviate traffic congestion and reduce vehicular emissions in the bustling Bengaluru suburb. However, the environmental report has prompted the state’s forest department to request a comprehensive impact assessment before granting final clearance. Conservation NGOs have pledged to file public interest litigations, citing statutory obligations under the Wildlife Protection Act and the National Green Tribunal’s precedents.

Should the project be halted or rerouted, the immediate benefit would be the preservation of the avian habitat and the ecosystem services it provides, such as pollination and pest control. Conversely, a delayed approval could set a benchmark for future infrastructure projects, mandating stricter ecological safeguards. Over the next twelve months, the controversy may shape policy on urban green corridors, influencing how Indian cities balance development with biodiversity conservation.