Bangalore University Defends Infrastructure Expansion, Balances Growth with Green Initiatives

University Asserts Compliance with Environmental Norms Amid Construction for New Academic, Research Blocks

Bengaluru, June 27 — Bangalore University has responded to concerns raised by environmentalists regarding its ongoing infrastructure development, clarifying that the construction of new academic and research facilities under the Central Government’s PM-USHA scheme adheres to environmental regulations and is essential to meet the institution’s growing needs.

The university has secured a ₹100 crore grant under the PM-Upliftment of Scales in Higher Education (PM-USHA) scheme—60% funded by the Centre and 40% by the Karnataka Government—to enhance higher education infrastructure. Of this, ₹58 crore has been allocated for constructing a new Academic Block and a Research Block.

New Facilities to Boost Digital Learning and Cutting-Edge Research

The Academic Block, spanning 1,07,376 sq. ft., will support digital education in science, technology, and mathematics. The Research Block, covering 16,163 sq. ft., will focus on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, climate change, sustainable development, and social equity.

“These facilities will also house intellectual property rights cells, patent facilitation centers, and academic publication units to foster innovation,” said Prof. Dr. Jayakara Shetty M, Vice-Chancellor of Bangalore University.

Addressing Environmental Concerns: Tree Felling and Replanting Measures

Environmentalists had raised objections over tree removal for the construction, prompting the university to clarify that the project site does not fall within the ecologically sensitive bio-park zone. According to Dr. Shetty, the area primarily consists of Eucalyptus and Acacia trees, which are not endangered species.

“Out of 419 trees in the area, only 282 will be affected, with 169 being Nilgiri trees. The remaining 137 in the buffer zone will be preserved, and smaller trees will be transplanted,” he explained. “In compliance with the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, 1976, we will plant ten saplings for every tree removed.”

The university has a long-standing commitment to green initiatives, having planted over 6 lakh saplings of 300 species since 1998, including 1.6 lakh between 2017 and 2022.

Sustainable Campus Development: LED Lighting, EV Promotion, and Water Conservation

An additional ₹8 crore from the PM-USHA grant has been earmarked for environmental sustainability. Key initiatives include:

• Installation of LED street lighting

• Promotion of electric vehicles and bicycles

• Upgraded pedestrian pathways and geoparks

• Revival of medicinal plant zones (Charakavana and Panchavati)

• Rainwater harvesting systems and bio-fencing

• Construction of watchtowers and a Nature Interpretation Centre

• Seven check dams for water conservation

Why Expansion is Necessary: Space Constraints and Future Needs

Dr. Shetty emphasized that the university’s 73 existing buildings are fully occupied, hosting 42 academic departments, hostels, libraries, and administrative offices.

“Vertical expansion is not feasible due to structural limitations, necessitating new constructions,” he said. “While the Jnana Bharathi campus spans 1,184 acres, around 300 acres have been leased to other institutions. Much of the remaining land is densely vegetated, requiring careful planning to balance development and ecology.”

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

The university reaffirmed its dedication to responsible expansion, ensuring that academic progress aligns with environmental stewardship.

“These projects are designed to meet student needs while prioritizing sustainability,” Dr. Shetty concluded. “Our goal is to foster an ecosystem where education and nature thrive together.”

With these measures, Bangalore University aims to modernize its infrastructure while reinforcing its reputation as a green campus committed to both academic excellence and ecological preservation.