Clear enroachments on two lakes in eight weeks, says Lokayukta
The Lokayukta had directed the Tashildars to clear encroachments in these two lakes by eight weeks.
Bengaluru: As a follow up on complaints submitted to Lokayukta on the encroachment and pollution across 30 lakes in Bengaluru, the hearing for Kaggadasapura and Abbigere lakes came up on Tuesday.
The survey report for the Kaggadasapura Lake was submitted on Tuesday, and around one acre was found have been encroached upon. It was also noted that BWSSB has done nothing to stop the inflow of sewage into the lake.
About Rs 16 crore were given as financial aid by the KSPCB to the BWSSB to install STP, but the plan is yet to be implemented as even the tendering process has not commenced.
The Lokayukta had directed the Tashildars to clear encroachments in these two lakes by eight weeks.
Abbigere lake falls under two talukas and has been assigned two different survey numbers. A part of the lake has been surveyed and it was found that about 1.5 acre has been encroached by the BWSSB and about half an acre of land has been encroached by a private builder to build road for their layout.
The survey for the other half of the lake will be initiated on June 11 and a detailed report will be submitted by mid-June.
In addition, Lokayukta has asked all district Deputy Commissioners of 30 districts to submit reports on lakes in their respective districts. The Lokayukta has also allowed United Bengaluru to submit additional complaints on any other lakes that are facing similar issues.
The Lokayukta was visibly upset that there has been unnecessary wastage of public money by moving the lake’s upkeep from one department to other.
Since few officers did not respond with complete details, he said he might call for a separate inquiry on money being spent on rejuvenation of lakes.
During the hearing it was brought to the Lokayukta’s notice that 17 lakes have been rejuvenated by BDA, however none of them have silt traps.