Advertisement
When should a housing society in Mumbai start considering re...
From GST on JDAs to SEBI’s REIT reclassification and the S...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
The BBMP has identified 235 acres of encroached land across 183 active lakes in Bengaluru, with 120 lakes impacted by private properties and 131 by government projects. Despite legal actions and a ?52.55 crore allocation for lake conservation, only seven acres have been reclaimed. Encroachments include roads on 116 lakes and cemeteries on 15. The court has demanded detailed encroachment data, urging BBMP to expedite action. These lakes, vital for the city's ecology and water supply, face severe threats amid rapid urbanization. Citizens are encouraged to support conservation efforts to protect Bengaluru's diminishing natural resources.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has revealed alarming figures regarding the encroachment of lakes in the city. According to recent findings, 235 acres of land across 183 active lakes have been taken over by private entities and government agencies. This situation has prompted BBMP to initiate legal actions aimed at reclaiming these lands, highlighting the urgent need for environmental protection and urban planning. Advertisement
A joint survey conducted by BBMP and the Revenue Department uncovered these encroachments for the first time. In an affidavit submitted during a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) hearing, BBMP reported that out of the 183 lakes surveyed, 120 have faced partial encroachments by private properties. Additionally, 131 lakes have been occupied by government agencies for various public projects. Despite the scale of the issue, BBMP has only managed to reclaim a mere seven acres across 13 lakes in recent years.
To combat this issue, BBMP allocated INR 52.55 crore over the past three years for lake conservation efforts. The funds have been used for projects such as fencing, with over 38,000 meters completed and an additional 12,575 meters currently underway. This investment reflects BBMP's commitment to protecting these vital water bodies, which play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the city.
During a recent court session, Advocate General K. Shashikiran Shetty represented BBMP and presented details regarding the encroachments. However, the petitioners' lawyer, Senior Advocate Jyothi Kothari, pointed out that BBMP had not provided specific information about the extent of encroachments on individual lakes. This lack of detail complicates efforts to remove illegal structures and reclaim the land. The court has since ordered BBMP to supply comprehensive details about each lake's encroachment status, including the amount of land reclaimed and future plans for action.
The encroachments are not limited to private entities. Government agencies have also taken over parts of 131 lakes for infrastructure projects. This includes roads on 116 lakes, cemeteries on 15, and various public buildings. The encroachment of lakes poses a significant risk to Bengaluru's environment, affecting biodiversity and water quality. The BBMP has begun issuing notices to encroachers and is pursuing all necessary legal avenues to reclaim these lands.
As Bengaluru continues to expand, the preservation of its lakes becomes increasingly critical. These water bodies not only support local wildlife but also serve as essential resources for the community. The ongoing legal and administrative efforts by BBMP are a step towards restoring these natural habitats, but they require public support and awareness to be truly effective. Community involvement and advocacy can play a vital role in protecting Bengaluru's lakes and ensuring sustainable urban development.
In light of these developments, residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in conservation efforts. The BBMP has made information about the lakes available online, allowing citizens to track the status of these crucial resources. As the city navigates its growth, a collaborative approach will be essential to safeguard Bengaluru's lakes for future generations.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
