The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has intensified its efforts to tackle the ongoing water management crisis at Bellandur Lake and Varthur Lake, two of Bengaluru’s most critical water bodies. In a strategic move aimed at addressing environmental and public health concerns, the BDA, led by its Chairman, conducted an on-site review of the development works around these lakes on Tuesday. The inspection involved both BDA engineers and local residents, highlighting a collaborative approach to resolving the pressing issues.
One of the key decisions taken during the review was to halt the flow of untreated sewage into Bellandur and Varthur Lakes. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has been under scrutiny for releasing untreated water into Bellandur Lake from upstream sources, exacerbating pollution levels and contributing to the ecological degradation of the lakes. The BDA’s stance marks a crucial step in curbing this detrimental practice, with a focus on safeguarding the water quality and preventing further environmental damage.
The timing of this intervention is particularly significant as water conservation experts have raised alarms about the potential impacts on the groundwater table surrounding the lakes. The absence of water release, especially ahead of the summer months, could lead to severe depletion of groundwater levels, which is already a growing concern in areas like Mahadevapura and Varthur. Last summer, several borewells in these regions ran dry, highlighting the urgent need for effective water management strategies. During the meeting, BDA engineers voiced concerns over the operational inefficiency of sewage treatment plants (STPs) that are supposed to treat waste before it enters the lakes. Despite the infrastructure being in place, untreated sewage continues to flow into Bellandur Lake, largely due to the STPs not being utilised to their full potential. This situation has prompted calls for immediate corrective measures to ensure that all sewage is properly treated before it reaches any natural water body.
The BDA’s decision to prevent the entry of untreated water into Bellandur and Varthur Lakes is seen as a proactive measure to avert a potential water crisis in Bengaluru. However, the success of these efforts will heavily depend on the coordination between multiple civic bodies, including the BWSSB, and their commitment to implementing sustainable water management practices. Additionally, the involvement of local communities is crucial to monitor and report any violations, thereby ensuring compliance with the new directives. As Bengaluru continues to grapple with its water management challenges, the situation at Bellandur and Varthur Lakes underscores the need for comprehensive, long-term solutions. The BDA’s latest actions signal a commitment to protecting the city’s vital water resources, but they also highlight the complex interplay of environmental, regulatory, and community factors that must be navigated to achieve sustainable outcomes.
