BBMP to appeal against NGT order

Bengaluru: In the backdrop of National Green Tribunal slapping a hefty fine on the BBMP for neglecting Bellandur and Varthur lakes, a top official of the BBMP told Deccan Chronicle that they will appeal against the NGT order.

He pointed out that Bengaluru Development Authority is the custodian of the Bellandur lake and not the BBMP.

“We have been doing all we could to save the lake. We have appointed 18 marshals who monitor the lake round the clock. They have been doing their duty since March,” he said.

Prior to the appointment of the marshals, miscreants used to dump garbage, construction wastes and others into the lake and its buffer zones. Now they are being caught and fined. The marshals have also cleared encroachments in many areas, the official said.

Many villagers nearby enter the lake and its islands to collect grass for the cows and buffaloes.

The place was also being misused for anti-social activities. Miscreants used to lit fire to the dry grass. But ever since the marshals were deployed no more fire incidents have take place, he said.

“Remodelling of storm water drains is going on a large scale. The major pollutant of the lake is the BWSSB, which is letting untreated sewage into the lake,” the official pointed out. 

“We have already discussed the issue with the advocates of the BBMP. They have asked us to file an appeal against the  NGT order and explain the slew of development works taken up by the BBMP and convince the court with facts,” the official said.