Pollution: Varthur lake is drying up ... fast!

Bengaluru: While frothing at Varthur and Bellandur lakes evoked shock among city residents, it has now come to light that water level in Varthur lake is receding due to pollution and encroachments.

Following numerous complaints regarding poor lake maintenance, KSPCB Chairman Lakshman had conducted a surprise inspection at Varthur lake on Thursday. The inspection, led by Lakshman and Whitefield residents, highlighted some of the major problems in the neighbourhood, which has contaminated the lake.

Elan, a member of Whitefield Rising, said, “The inspection was primarily conducted to check the receding water levels of the lake. Also, the lake has been severely polluted and garbage accumulation is high. Further, since encroachments are rampant, the KSPCB officials collected water samples from apartments in the lake vicinity.”

Lakshman instructed revenue department officials to complete the pending survey and fence the lake border. Meanwhile, he noticed that garbage was openly being burnt in Munnekolala and warned the BBMP officials that notices would be issued against them for failure to scientifically dispose solid waste.
Lakshman also sought a report on Varthur lake maintenance from BBMP officials and instructed them to submit it within 20 days.