Bengaluru:

With heart-related illnesses and lifestyle diseases on the rise, many citizens are realizing the critical importance of physical activity. But in a traffic-congested city like Bengaluru, where open spaces are rapidly shrinking, playgrounds and walking areas are rare and valuable.Vogaan Men's T-Shirt and Shorts Set | Top & Shorts Night Suits Set | Night Wear for Men

One such space—the APS College Ground in Basavanagudi—has become the center of a growing public protest. The ground, regularly used by children, youth, and fitness enthusiasts for daily activities like jogging, walking, and playing, has reportedly been rented out for an entire month by the APS Trust for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

This decision has sparked outrage among locals and sports lovers who argue that the festival can be celebrated for 3 to 5 days, but renting a public playground for 23 days is excessive and unfair.

The “Save the Playground” campaign is gaining traction, with local residents and youth taking to the streets, demanding that access to the playground be restored for public use. Protesters have even decided to file a formal complaint with the Police Commissioner, asking that permission for Ganesh festivities at APS College Ground be revoked.

It has also come to light that the Bengaluru Ganesh Utsav team has reportedly rented two playgrounds — the APS College Ground and National College Ground — for their events, including idol installation and cultural programs.

📣 Protestors' Key Points:

“Children are finally coming to play instead of staying glued to their phones. Why take this away from them?”

“With so many people suffering from health issues, playgrounds are essential for physical activity.”

“Let them celebrate Ganesh Utsav, but not at the cost of public health and children's right to play.”