Couples looking to romance under a tree or behind the bush, Bollywood style, at Chamarajendra Park (Cubbon Park) have bad news. The Horticulture Department and Bescom (Bangalore Electricity Supply Company) are implementing an ‘intelligent lighting system’ and CCTV network all across the park’s 300 acres.

The project, funded by Bescom, will allow centralised surveillance of the park by the Horticulture department, so that any “unacceptable public display of affection” will be flagged, and the “culprits” asked to leave; announcements made through the nearest speakers.

Mahantesh Muragod, Deputy Director of Cubbon Park, said: “We have already had one round of meeting and soon the cabling and other works will be executed by Bescom. All walking tracks will be lit up with LED lights, and audio speakers will also be installed. CCTV cameras will be fixed at vantage points and on some of the lampposts. Seating will be designed accordingly.”