The rains are here, but are Bengaluru’s lakes monsoon-ready? Premium

Although BBMP authorities vouch that cleaning and maintenance activities are being done, activists and experts feel a more concerted effort by different departments, keeping in mind long-term impact is key.

As one approaches the wetland area of the Kothnur lake in South Bengaluru, bright bougainvillea blooms greet you. The sprawling water beyond the pink flowers is a sight to behold.  

For a moment, it’s bliss. And then, the wind blows.  

The breeze brings with it a pungent smell, and a harder look shows thick raw sewage floating over the water near the banks. Further ahead, a dried portion of the lakebed reveals plastic waste, in abundance. In the last week of May the lake saw its second incidence of fishkill this year. 

Bengaluru’s lakes may not be perennial. But their problems seem to be.

As the state expects rains by the first week of June, are the lakes of the garden city monsoon-ready? Many fear they are not. 

Although BBMP authorities vouch that cleaning and maintenance activities are being done, activists and experts feel a more concerted effort by different departments, keeping in mind long-term impact is key. 

“This is a problem every year despite flagging it repeatedly,” says Raghavendra Pachhapur, programme officer at Action Aid India.