BENGALURU: An abandoned stone quarry at Hennur Bande in HBR Layout is set to be transformed into a heat resilient public park as Bengaluru steps up efforts to address rising temperatures and the urban heat island effect.
The Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) plans to redevelop a 10 acre under utilised site surrounded by a 20 acre buffer zone, into a climate responsive recreational space at an estimated cost of ₹5.5 crore. The corporation has invited tenders for the project.
According to a BNCC official Hennur Bande has been identified as an urban heat hotspot because the stone quarry absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night contributing to higher temperatures in the surrounding area.
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) while launching the city’s heat health protocol in September, said Bengaluru’s mean air temperature had increased by nearly 0.5°C over the past decade. Some parts of the city recorded temperatures close to 40°C in April 2024.
The proposed park will combine environmental restoration with recreational facilities for residents. The existing playground will be retained and developed, while additional amenities are expected to include skating facilities, volleyball courts an outdoor yoga area and a dedicated walking track.
The project will also feature multiple percolation pits to support groundwater recharge. Green cover, shaded areas and water sensitive design are intended to help moderate local temperatures while creating more space for walking, exercise and outdoor activities.
Work is expected to begin by the end of 2026 after the tender process is completed with the park targeted for completion by mid 2027.
However, the tender document does not specify measurable temperature reduction targets, the number of trees to be planted or the proportion of the site that will be covered by vegetation. These details could help assess the project’s effectiveness in reducing heat exposure.
Beyond the quarry redevelopment the BNCC is planning other heat resilience measures including cool roofs, net zero multi hazard centres and cool bus shelters as the city seeks to strengthen its response to rising temperatures.