Lakes of Bengaluru: Calls rise for stopping untreated sewage entering Kudlu Doddakere lake

In 2016-17, the Karnataka government allocated Rs 8.31 crore to restore the lake spread over 45 acres. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) de-silted the lake and fenced it to secure it from encroachment.

The BBMP has maintained the cleanliness of the footpath around the lake. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

“The lake was secured from encroachments. We had de-silted the lake and constructed a waste weir and silt traps so that no solid waste could get into the lake. The lake bund was created and an artificial island was also made in the lake. A separate idol immersion tank was also constructed. A new gate at the entry was also made,” a BBMP engineer said.

However, untreated sewage began entering the lake in 2021.

Raghavendra B Pachhapur of the NGO ActionAid Association said that 98 species of birds had visited the lake in the past three years. He added that despite a sewage diversion channel, the lake had been receiving untreated water.

“The lake also has a history of the death of a large number of snails two years ago. Several plants along the lake were torched a year ago. The BBMP needs to be swift in cases of entry of untreated water into the lake. They must monitor and maintain diversion channels,” he said.

Also known as Hosa Kere Lake, it is connected to the Kudlu Chikka Kere, Haraluru, Kasavanahalli, Kaikondrahalli and Sowl Kere lakes. (Express photo by Jithendra M)

The BBMP has maintained the cleanliness of the footpath around the lake, Aaron Jaji, an intern with the NGO, observed after visiting the lake. “The lake is a good habitat for birds. The lake has diversion channels to stop sewage from entering the lake. The inlets and outlets of the lake are very well maintained. However, the barrier that stops untreated sewage from entering the lake should be higher because there is a possibility of its entering the waterbody and polluting it during rain,” Jaji said, adding that the authorities should be strict so that visitors do not litter the lake.

The authorities must ensure that sewage does not enter the lake, said Hari J, a resident staying in the vicinity of the lake. “It is a good place for birds and butterflies. However, certain things like security around the lake should be enhanced. There are chain snatchers in the evening. And the segregation of garbage close to the lake should be stopped as the stench is unbearable for the visitors. Moreover, the BBMP should stop the entry of sewage into the lake,” he said.