waterbodies_of_bangalore

BLUE RENAISSANCE

And If You Want To Save It Show A Little Respect...

A Report On Water Bodies In BangaloreByIndu Bhargavi RNagashri M PalavalliRashmi Subramanya

Acknowledgement 

We, Indu Bhargavi R, Nagashri M Palavalli and Rashmi Subramanya studying 1st year law in University Law College, Bangalore take this opportunity to thank all the people who have helped in the completion of this project. We would like to thank Mr. Leo F Saldanha, Coordinator, Environment Support Group for his guidance. We are also grateful to Mrs. Bhargavi S Rao, Ms. Arpita Joshi, Ms. Dolly Kalitha, Mr. Mallesh K R, Mrs. Harminder Kaur and Mrs. Gitanjali Mahanti for their inputs and help. 

We are thankful to our parents and well wishers for supporting and encouraging us throughout this project.  

DECLARATION We, Indu Bhargavi R, Nagashri M Palavalli and Rashmi Subramanya studying 1st year law in University Law College, Bangalore hereby declare that this project titled “BLUE RENAISSANCE” is bonafide work carried out as part of our internship under the guidance of Mr. Leo F Saldanha and this original report has been duly submitted in July, 2007.

Abbreviations

BBMP Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike

BCC Bangalore City Corporation

BDA Bangalore Development Authority

BET Bangalore Environment Trust

BMP Bangalore Mahanagara Palike

BMRDA Bangalore Metropolitan Regional Development Authority

BMTF Bangalore Metropolitan Task Force

BOD Biological Oxygen Demand

BUAC Bangalore Urban Arts Commission

BWSSB Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board

CES The Centre for Ecological Sciences

CMC City Municipal Councils

COD Chemical Oxygen Demand

CPCB Central Pollution Control Board

DCF Deputy Conservator of Forests

DRT Debt Recovery Tribunal

H.A.L Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

H.M.T Hindustan Machine Tools

HUDCO Housing Urban Development Corporation

IISc Indian Institute of Science

ILEC International Lake Environment Committee Foundation

INEP Indo-Norwegian Environment project

I.T.I Industrial Training Institute

IYF International year for Freshwater

KLD Kilo liters per day

KMC Karnataka Municipal Corporation

KSLSA Karnataka State Legal Services Authority

KSPCB Karnataka State Pollution Control Board

KSTDC Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation

LDA Lake Development Authority

MLD Milli Litres per Day

NGC National Green Corps

NGO Non Governmental Organization

NLCP The National Lake Conservation Plan

NRCD The National River Conservation Directorate

NRCP National River Conservation Programme

PIL Public Interest Litigation

RBI Reserve Bank of India

STP Sewage Treatment Plant

ULF Ulsoor Lake Foundation

UN The United Nations

UNEP The United Nations Environment Programme

URC Urban Urban Research Centre

WWD World World Wetlands Day

INDEX OF AUTHORITIES

1. http://ramsar.org/about/about_infopack_1e.htm 2. “Local people to be given charge of rejuvenated lakes”, Deccan Herald, 29-03-

2006, http://www.deccanherald.com/Archives/Mar292006/state19942006328.asp3. “Fish Mortality in Bangalore Lakes” by Ranjeev Benjamin , Kar Devashish,

A.V. Nagarathna, B.K. Chakrapani, T.V.Ramachandra India , December 1996, Issue 6, Electronic Green Journal

http://egj.lib.uidaho.edu/egj06/ramachandra.html 4. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/lakes.html 5. “Listening to the land” by Bageshree S, The Hindu, 26-06-2006,

http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2006/06/26/stories/2006062601610100.htm 6. “Lakes in Bangalore”, http://www.karnataka.com/tourism/bangalore/lakes-drainage.shtml 7. “Bangalore’s lakes: Choked by the IT web” by M. Radhika 8. http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/lake2002/proceedings/2_4.html#address PAPER-4: Trend in Urban Development around Water Tanks in Bangalore by Mahalakshmi K 9. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/lakes_imp.html 10. “Bangalore attracting winged visitors” by Sunil Kumar M

http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/bangalore.html  11. “Wetland conservation for water security” by Harsha T.P, Deccan Herald, 31-01-2003 12. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/role.html 13. “Lake Silt will be given to Farmers”, Times of India, 04-03-2003,

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/39207805.cms

14. “Doomsday predicted for wetlands” by Alladi Jayasri, The Hindu, 10-12-2002 http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/doom.htm

15. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/urbpop.html 16. “Prime land encroached, lake too in danger”, New Indian Express, 15-05-2007

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070514231917

17. “Better put your idols in a bucket at home”, By Kanak Hirani, 12 -08-2001, Times of India, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1252607769.cms

18. http://kspcb.kar.nic.in/lakeslist_ganesha_fest.htm (last visited on 12-07-2007)

19. “Go for eco-friendly idols”, S.B. Vijaya Mary, The Hindu, 09-09-2002 http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2002/09/09/stories/2002090900810100.htm

20. “Mobile Tanks to Aid Immersion at Home”, Deccan Herald, 15-09-2004

21. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/grdwater.html22. “Wetlands and Fish”, by Madhav Gadgil, Deccan Herald, 29-12-2001 http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/gadgil.html23. “The Way we were – Disappearing Birdlife”, http://www.indiaexpress.com/bangalore/eureka/birds.html

24. http://envfor.nic.in25. “Lake maintenance may be handed over to BDA or BMP”, The Hindu, 30-10-2005 http://www.thehindu.com/2005/10/30/stories/2005103020180300.htm26. “Lakes may go to BMP and BDA”, http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070521235229 27. IMPACT OF PRIVATISATION OF LAKES IN BANGALORE, Rohan D'Souzahttp://www.doccentre.net/docsweb/Rohan_final_report_lakes_privatisation.php#Lake_Development_Authority

28. http://www.unesco.org/water/iyfw2/index.shtml

29. http://www.ilec.or.jp , http://www.taal2007.org/ilec.asp

30. “Encroachers put Bangalore’s Lakes on endangered list’ by P.M Raghunandan, The New Indian Express, 14-08-2001

31. wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/central.html, “Central project to give new life to four lakes”, By Paawana Poonacha

32. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/initiatives.html

33. “For lake’s sake: The saga of a struggle”, http://envfor.nic.in

34. “Lakes clean up drive”, Deccan Herald, 05-06-2007, http://www.deccanherald.com/Content/Jun52007/city200706055742.asp

35. “BDA plunges into lake cleaning drive”, 04-06-2007, http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070604002908

36. http://www.doccentre.net/docsweb/Rohan_final_report_lakes_privatisation.php 37. “Notices to BCC on lakes”, Times of India, 23-09-200538. “HC stays proceedings on tank bed area case”, Deccan Herald, 17-03-200539. “Will it Hold Water?” By Radhakrishna Rao http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/will.html

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TOPIC PAGE NUMBER

Introduction 1

Chronological Development around Water 2

Why are these Lakes Important to

Bangalore?

6

Importance to Flora and Fauna 7

Importance to Fresh Water 8

Effects of Lakes on Ground Water 9

Hydrological Role of Lake 9

Nutrient Cycling 10

Lakes in Urban Areas as Tourists Spots 10

Miscellaneous 12

Causes for the Deterioration and Disappearance of Water Bodies

13

Effects of Urbanisation in Bangalore 16

Immersion of Idols 18

What are the Effects of Pollution on the Lakes of Bangalore?

21

Impact on Groundwater 23

Impact on Aquatic Creatures 23

Impact on Wildlife 24

Authorities In charge Of Water Bodies in

Bangalore

26

Lake Development Authority 28

A Critical Look at the Conception of the Lake 30

Development Authority

Initiatives to Save Lakes 32

Legislations, Policies and Reports Regarding

Water Bodies in Bangalore

38

The Lakshman Rau Committee Report 38

Karnataka State Water Policy 39

Agaram Lake 42

Bellandur Lake 44

Hebbal Lake 49

Lalbagh Lake 54

Madivala Lake 59

Sankey Tank 64

Ulsoor Lake 70

Varthur Lake 79

Yediyur Lake 82

Recommendations 87

Introduction

Water is an essential component of an eco-system.  Two-thirds of the earth is surrounded by water. It sustains life on Earth. A community depends on water for its domestic, agriculture and industrial needs.

The Ramsar Convention, 1971 to which India is a signatory, takes a broad approach in determining the wetlands which come under its aegis. Under the text of the Convention (Article 1.1), wetlands are defined as:

"areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres".

In addition, the Convention (Article 2.1) provides that wetlands:

"may incorporate riparian and coastal zones adjacent to the wetlands, and islands or bodies of marine water deeper than six metres at low tide lying within the wetlands".

As a result of these provisions, the coverage of the Convention extends to a wide variety of habitat types, including rivers and lakes, coastal lagoons, mangroves, peatlands, and even coral reefs.1

Availability of water has been a factor in the development of various civilizations near lakes and rivers. Rivers, lakes and wells are important sources of water in a region and at a particular stage in development, tanks and wells are introduced to harvest rain and ground water. Wells and tanks are the sources of water in most places even today. Tanks harvest rainwater and store it, while wells tap water stored underground. Tanks are categorized as those that exist on a basin less than 40 hectares of land and those above 40 hectares. 2

The total water spread in India is about 4.5 million hectares. Inland aquaculture resources cover about 3 million hectares. These include about 0.72 million hectares of natural lakes and 2.0 million hectares of constructed reservoirs. The state of Karnataka has about 2000 perennial and about 30,000 seasonal tanks with a total water spread area of 3,000,000 hectares. Wetlands occupy about 4.8 per cent of the geographical area in Bangalore (640 sq. km.). Most of the wetlands are to be found on the outskirts and rural fringes of the City. 3

4. http://ramsar.org/about/about_infopack_1e.htm

5. “Local people to be given charge of rejuvenated lakes”, Deccan Herald, 29-03-2006,

http://www.deccanherald.com/Archives/Mar292006/state19942006328.asp6. “Fish Mortality in Bangalore Lakes” by Ranjeev Benjamin , Kar Devashish, A.V. Nagarathna,

B.K. Chakrapani, T.V.Ramachandra India , December 1996, Issue 6, Electronic Green Journal http://egj.lib.uidaho.edu/egj06/ramachandra.html

In Karnataka, the Hoysalas built tanks all over the state. Some of these still exist. Festivals were organized around tanks; cleaning and de-silting the tanks were a part of the rituals.

Bangalore in earlier days was very well known as "The City of Lakes". Kempegowda, the founder of Bangalore, who had broad vision, established several tanks and lakes to impound runoff water, so that the same could be utilized for better purposes and also enhanced the beauty of Garden City. The farsighted founder dotted the city with numerous lakes/tanks in and around the city to ensure, that its citizens would always have abundance of water to drink, irrigate their lands and use for secondary purposes. As Arkavathy, the only river nearby, was some distance away, Kempegowda began his township by building lakes like Ulsoor, Dharmabudhi, Kempambundi and Karnaja to provide drinking water. With Bangalore Cantonment coming up in 1806, a twin city of Bangalore grew in a planned manner with the maintenance and restoration of lakes.

The earliest instance of Construction of tank in Bangalore dates back to the latter part of the 16th Century, when the founder of Bangalore, Kempegowda built the Ulsoor tank covering a huge area of 125 acres. The British administration then maintained and improved the lake which met the water needs of the city for as long as 200 years. Water from other lakes such as Sankey, Miller's and Sampangi tank was also used by the people for their water requirements.

The first instance of contamination of Ulsoor tank by sewage was reported way back in 1883 after which the use of lake water for purposes of public consumption was prohibited.

Records show that till 1960 there were 262 water bodies in Bangalore. Today the figures have declined to about 81 of which 34 are recognized as live lakes.

These figures denote a reduction of water bodies as high as 35.09%, while in terms of waterspread area it shows a decrease of 8.66 %. 4

4. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/lakes.html

Hard as it is to imagine, the land where Parade Grounds stand today was once a tank and the promenade skirting M.G. Road was its bund. What's today Rest House Crescent Road was a canal running from it. Our city has no perennial water sources and has (rather, had) only a fantastic system of tanks .The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) team found that the lakes were being choked systematically and would eventually result in their disappearance. Sources say the city’s water landscape that was 4.8 percent earlier has come down to 2 percent. 5

Miller's Tank was a huge area of three lakes. Today it accommodates hospitals and IT companies. The lakes were connected to Sankey Tank. When Sankey overflowed, water used to flow into Miller's tanks. The Lalbagh Botanical Garden was the brainchild of Haider Ali. The contribution of the Wodeyars was also significant. 6

Five decades ago, there were more than 250 lakes which took care of the city’s water needs and cooled the people during the summer. According to a study by the Centre for Ecological Sciences of IISc, Bangalore, only 17 lakes are alive today though state officials claim that it could be 64. Of the 17, at least three are fast drying up. The expansion that occurred since the 1980s has made the City vulnerable to devastation. But it still has an opportunity to be remodeled to symbolize a new beginning for a New India.7

5. “Listening to the land” by Bageshree S, The Hindu, 26-06-2006, http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2006/06/26/stories/2006062601610100.htm

6. “Lakes in Bangalore”, http://www.karnataka.com/tourism/bangalore/lakes-drainage.shtml7. “Bangalore’s lakes: Choked by the IT web” by M. Radhika

Chronological Development around Water Tanks of Bangalore

1537: Magadi Kempe Gowda (Yelahanka Line of Chiefs ) established the settlement of Bangalore (Bengaluru) with a fort of modest dimensions and mud as the main building material.

1605: Magadi's son Kempe Gowda II expands the fort and demarcates the limits of Bangalore through 4 decorated pillars, still standing today. This encompassed about 25 sq. km. of land to indicate a 4 century old vision of   Bangalore. It was during the reign of these rulers that the tanks were built for agricultural and domestic purposes.

1759: In about 10 hectares of land around the Kempe Gowda Pillar, Hyder Ali expands an existing mango orchard into a garden and named it Lalbagh. It was during Tipu's (Hyder's son) time many floral species were brought   from Turkey, Afghanistan, Persia and Mauritius to Lalbagh.

1809: The British Cantonment was established near Ulsoor tank covering a large area along with a buffer space between the cantonment and the old city.

1831: Shift of British capital from Mysore to Bangalore.

1864: Bangalore connected by rail to Chennai to become second most important commercial centre. Cubbon Park laid out on 120 ha of land. Racecourse is built outside the western limits of the cantonment.

1866: A new reservoir – Miller's tank is built to supply piped water in addition to the water from Ulsoor.

1882: Sankey tank is constructed near K.G. Northern Pillar.

1887: Wodeyars build the Bangalore palace on spacious grounds.

1896: Hesaraghatta reservoir commissioned to augment protected water to the city.

1931: Population of Bangalore enumerated as 3.08 lakhs.

1933: The Tippegondanahalli dam across the Arkavati River brings treated water into the city.

1941: Population of Bangalore enumerated as 4.07 lakhs.

1949: Bangalore Municipal Corporation formed by merging the city and cantonment areas. It encompassed 175-sq. km. of land.

1952: Five satellite towns proposed, namely townships of H.A.L., I.T.I., H.M.T., Banaswadi and north of Tannery road,   within a short time these areas get merged with Bangalore.

1964: Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) constituted.

1971: Population enumerated as 16.64 lakhs. Land values in the cantonment area begin rising.

1972: Government approves the Out line Development Plan for Bangalore.

1974: Cauvery Water Supply Scheme brings treated water to Bangalore.

1976: Bangalore Urban Arts Commission (BUAC) set up. Work commences on Comprehensive Development Plan or enlarged metropolitan area of 1279 sq. km. of which 830-sq. km. is the green belt.

1981: Population of the enlarged Bangalore Urban Area enumerated as 29.22 lakhs. Decadal growth rate is highest among 12 metropolitan cities.

1988: Electronic city developed on 140 ha of land on Hosur road. The city emerges as the software centre of India.

1991: Population of BUA enumerated at 41.3lakhs. This constitutes 9.2% of the total population of the state and 30%   of the total urban population of the state.

1995: Revised CDP approved for BMA for population of 70lakhs by AD 2011with a conurbation area of 565sqkms and green belt of 714 sq kms. 8

8. http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/lake2002/proceedings/2_4.html#address PAPER-4: Trend in Urban Development around Water Tanks in Bangalore by Mahalakshmi K

Why are these Lakes Important to Bangalore?

The city of Bangalore does not have any perennial river. It is dependent on the River of Cauvery, about 140 km away for water. The naturally undulating terrain of Bangalore city, with its hills and valleys, lends

itself perfectly to the development of lakes that can capture and store rainwater. The lakes in Bangalore form a chain of hydrological connection through them. The flow of water runs from North to South-east as well as South-west along the

natural gradient of the land. During monsoons, the surplus water from the upstream lake flows down into the

next lake in the chain and from there further down. This connectivity did not allow an overflow of water out of the lake into the

surroundings area as additional quantity of seasonal water was transferred to other lakes.

The lakes thus form a chain of reservoirs in each of the three valley systems. Each valley at the ridge top gives birth to small streams. These cascades down to form major stream systems in three valleys

Hebbal Valley Koramangala - Challaghatta Valley Vrishabhavati Valley 9

Source: http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/lakes_imp.html

9. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/lakes_imp.html The 3 valleys of Bangalore namely the Hebbal Valley, the Koramangala-

Challaghatta Valley and the Vrishabhavati Valley are the repository of all the lakes in Bangalore and these lakes themselves are interlinked to each other through a series of lakes giving a cascading effect to the whole system.9

The lakes, which impounded rainwater, stored it for future use and ensured ground water recharge.

The lakes which are live systems played crucial roles in the life cycle of several thousand species of organisms. It also has a beneficial impact on the microclimate.10

Importance to Flora and Fauna

The lakes of Bangalore have attained an important ecological status as the lakes have turned into lentic-closed aquatic habitats. These lakes form a unique irreplaceable system.

The man made lakes of this zone can be viewed as a basin with several zones of water at varying depths, abutting a deeper zone that lies towards the bund.

The zonation is dynamic and promotes the growth of variety of emergent, floating, anchored floating and submerged vegetation, each of which shows a preference for a particular range of water depths.

Source: http://www.incredibleindiatour.com/images/incerdible-india-destination-tours/bangalore/ulsoor-lake-bangalore.jpg

Because of this difference in growth habits and structure of these plants, vertically stratified vegetation layers are formed. These fresh water plant communities accommodate a large number of organisms like varied periphyton, flagella bodies, insects and mollusks etc., which form the staple diet of many species of invertebrates and vertebrates in the lakes food chain. These lakes form an important eco system in the city and they also lower the

pollution by trapping heat and dust and make urban living pleasant provided the water body is kept clean. 10

10. “Bangalore attracting winged visitors” by Sunil Kumar M http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/bangalore.html 

The lakes of Bangalore are home to a diversity of living beings. The different types of birds, flora, fauna, fishes found in lakes of Bangalore are:

Birds like Purple moorhen, Pheasant tailed jacana, Comorants, White Kingfishers, Weaver birds, Purple Herons, Pond herons etc.,

Flora like typha, lily lotus, algae, tapegrass, ferns, reeds and rushes Fauna like freshwater turtle, frogs, crabs, molluscs. Fish like Common carp, Grass carp, katla, Rohu etc.10

Several of the dying wetlands of Bangalore have beckoned several thousands of winged visitors from outside the country. Many of these birds have traveled thousands of kilometers and made these wetlands their temporary abode. The annual waterfowl census conducted by a group of 25 birdwatchers using block counting method revealed that several of the tanks were hosting bird populations of more than 5,000.Out of the 21 tanks studied under a census, the Byramangala tank has by far revealed the highest number of birds, a massive 40,000 birds. The second highest has been the Hoskote tank with 26,000 ducks, while the Ramapura tank revealed about 4,000 ducks. Large congregations of pelicans, large and small cormorants were seen in the Yelamallappa Shetty tank on the old Madras road.

Under the Ramsar convention on Wetlands, 1971 to which India is a signatory, any wetlands supporting a population of 20,000 water birds regularly can be declared as a wetland of international significance. Among the birds that were recorded during the census include, shovellers, garganeys, pintails pochards, spot-billed ducks, painted storks, black and white ibis, spot billed pelicans, spoonbills, sand-pipers, white necked storks, pheasant-tailed jacanas, egrets, pond herons and barheaded geese. The ducks fly all the way from Northern Central Asia, while the waders come from around the Artic Circles and sandpipers from Northern Asia making several stopovers in north India before reaching Bangalore. Bird counts in the tanks have been carried out regularly every year from 1987 onwards and the data has found its place in the Asian Waterfowl Census report prepared by the International Waterfowl and Wetland research Bureau. As winter in northern Asia would be very harsh, these birds migrate to the south. They arrive in the month of September every year to Bangalore and return back to their region in April the following year.11

11. “Wetland conservation for water security” by Harsha T.P, Deccan Herald, 31-01-2003

Importance to Fresh Water

Wetlands play an important part in freshwater cycle. They are the link between water and land. They act as filters, thereby protecting sources of drinking water. The loss or degradation of wetlands has many consequences, such as increased flooding or the decline of water quality. Wetlands hold rainwater and sediments and purify water. The shrinking wetlands prove to be disastrous to the freshwater supply.

The World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg in August 2002 highlighted the fact that nearly 1.1 billion people do not have access to safe freshwater and there are nearly 1.7 billion people living in water scarce areas. .The Ramsar Convention had highlighted the wetland ecosystems as the starting point of all integrated water management strategies. Sustainability can be ensured only by maintaining the health of wetlands which are the sources of freshwater, besides being sources of livelihood to rural population. 11

Effects Of Lakes On Groundwater

The decrease of water bodies had its serious effect on the level of groundwater. With around more than a lakh bore wells in the city, there was overexploitation of existing ground water. In the absence of effective recharging of ground water by the lakes, it was a logical consequence that the city faced shortage of water.

A study from the Department of Mines & Geology, Government of Karnataka in 1985 highlighted the depth at which ground water was available had fallen to 250-300 feet from 35-40 feet in past 20 years. Reduction in the number of the water bodies and higher rate of retrieval than discharge capacity have caused inefficiency in their function as the recharge zones of ground water in the city area.

The resultant water shortage is the result of a depleted level of ground water and lack of recharging capacity. It has also reduced the moisture in air in turn resulting into change in the micro-climate of Bangalore. The seepage of toxic contents in the lake due to sewage, infestation of weeds etc., and the sub soil water that could be retrieved in the bore wells for domestic use is now contaminated with harmful toxic substances.10

Hydrological Role Of Lake

The lakes in Bangalore, which are scattered and placed in all vantage areas, have an important role in recharge of groundwater. The capability of these lakes to trap and store rainwater is enormous. The rainwater that could be harvested through these lakes would meet the city's water requirements partially. A large number of lakes in and around Bangalore have a vital hydrological role in recharging groundwater in its lower command areas and also in the valley portions enriching the flora and fauna and giving a green belt around every lake. But, with the decrease in number of lakes year by year, the recharge of groundwater has steadily declined to a very great extent.

The terrain of Bangalore is such that the water flows out on sloping land, but does not infiltrate quickly into the surface soil horizon. This phenomenon of water repellency is due to crusting of surface soils devoid of vegetation. If this runoff water is not trapped and groundwater aquifers not recharged, the scenario would indeed become bleak. 12

Nutrient Cycling

Wetlands, transition zones between land and water are efficient in filtering sediments. They can intercept run-off from land before it reaches the water and help in filtering nutrients, wastes and sediments from floodwaters. In certain wetlands, plants are so efficient in removing wastes that artificial wastewater treatment systems use aquatic plants for the removal of pollutants from water. Wetlands remove nutrients (especially nitrogen and phosphorus), particulates and total biological oxygen demand from flooding waters for plant growth and help prevent eutrophication or over-enrichment of other forms of natural waters (Nixon & Lee, 1986). However, overloading a wetland with nutrients, beyond its threshold, impairs its ability to perform basic functions. 12

12. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/role.html

Lakes in Urban Areas as Tourist Spots

A freshwater lake when maintained free from pollution can offer many beneficial uses in an urban area. They give very beautiful landscape view to the city.

Lakes encircled with trees and parks perhaps could be the only place where the urban population can find a place close to nature and provide aesthetic enjoyment and recreational potential. 12

The urban population can free themselves from the polluted urban air and find solace in the cool air by the lake side and relax in recreational activities such as swimming, boating, fishing and strolling along the lake shores. 10

Some of the existing Lakes in Bangalore that are preserved for picnic:Name of Lake Location Facilities

1. Sankey tank Sadashivnagar Children’s park, Boating

2. Madivala tank Madivala Children’s park, Boating

3.Tavarekere Udyanavana tank

Left of Sudamanagar, BTM Layout

Children’s park

4.Tindlu (Narasipura tank I & II)

Vidyaranyapura, Near BEL Factory

Children’s park, Jogging track

5. Yediyur tank Banashankari II Stage Children’s park, Boating

6. Hebbal tank Hebbal Children’s park, Boating

7. Ulsoor tank Ulsoor Childrens park, Boating

8. Kengeri tankKengeri, Near Bangalore University

9 Vengiahana Kere K.R PuramChildrens park, Boating, Jogging track

10.Nagavara tank

Near Hebbal Childrens park, Boating, Jogging track

11.Kempambudhi lake

Gavipuram Childrens park, Boating, Jogging track

12.Agaram tank

13. Uttarahalli

Mogekere14.

Benniganahally tankK.R Puram Childrens park, Boating

Source: http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/role.html

Miscellaneous

The silt removed from lakes after cleaning can also be used for agricultural purposes.In 2003; The BCC distributed the silt removed from Ulsoor Lake among farmers. Studies conducted by IISc and University of Agricultural Sciences have shown that the silt scrapped out of the 200-year-old Ulsoor lake bed is estimated to be three times richer than any organic manure. Also, the silt has a very high content of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and is free from pathogens and toxins. 13

Wetlands are helpful in controlling floods, replenishing groundwater, protecting biodiversity and providing livelihoods to local population. When it pours, drains overflow and the water has nowhere to go. According to one expert, this has happened as the authorities have worked against Bangalore’s system of lakes, built 468 years ago by founding father Kempegowda, and consolidated later by the British with a drainage system. While the history books say that there were 400 lakes and tanks, today this has dwindled to 64.It might appear strange that Bangalore situated 3,500 feet above sea level is facing floods. 11

Though these lakes play a pivotal role in maintaining a conducive environment for human existence, they have been polluted and destroyed over the years.

13. “Lake Silt will be given to Farmers”, Times of India, 04-03-2003, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/39207805.cms

Causes for the Deterioration and Disappearance of Water Bodies

DUMPING OF DEBRIS ON PERIPHERY OF LAKE,Source: http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/urbpop.html

As the N.Lakshman Rau Report on lakes and tanks noted in 1986, the number of man-made tanks fell from 379 in 1973, to 246 in 1996, and it is now 81. Over 133 water bodies have been lost -- 42 in North Bangalore and 91 in South Bangalore, over two decades.

Investigation has revealed that nearly -

30 per cent of the lakes are used for irrigation. Fishing is carried out in 25 per cent of the lakes surveyed. About 30 per cent are used for washing. Only three per cent for drinking.

In 21 per cent of the lakes, cultivation along the lake margins is prevalent. Mud-lifting is common in 30 per cent of the water bodies and brick-making in 38 per cent of the lakes. The spread of the City meant choking up of the water bodies.

In the past two years, 23 per cent of lakes were dry due to lack of rain, and 25 per cent had a little water. When the presence of sewage and degrees of eutrophication was recorded in 1996, about 28 per cent of the lakes were found to be functioning as sewage receptacles. About 25 per cent of the lakes have suffered from green waters, and eight per cent of the lakes had other effluents. And dishearteningly, 30 per cent of vegetables sold in the City are grown on these tank-beds and banks. 14

14. “Doomsday predicted for wetlands” by Alladi Jayasri, The Hindu, 10-12-2002 http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/doom.htm

Wetlands were destroyed for cultivation and to meet the demands of the increasing population.

The degradation of the lakes is mostly brought about by:- The dumping of waste construction material and garbage all around the

lakes. Leading sewage or factory effluent into the lakes. Choking of the water catchment area by unplanned development. Damaging the lake bunds by the erratic digging of earth to carry away the

fertile soil. Allowing the cattle to graze on the embankments. Allowing the lakes to become mosquito breeding centres. Lush growth of water hyacinth. Pollution Auctioning of tanks for fishing and boating in tanks are major problems. It

has been observed that wherever fishing and boating exists, birds avoid such water bodies. 10

Agricultural residues and industrial wastes reach wetlands and suffocate them, leading to their decline. The health of inland freshwater wetlands affects the health of coastal wetlands also. Coastal wetlands provide nearly 12 per cent of the total fish catch. But unsustainable fishing and pollution affect their yield.11

Out of the above mentioned factors responsible for the disappearance of wetlands it is mostly the large-scale development and urbanization which is sounding the death knell for Bangalore’s many lakes. Citizens groups also lay the blame of rapid disappearance of lakes on the real estate lobby which targets isolated water bodies to encroach upon given the city’s ever-growing demand for commercial space. Initially, the state governments showed the way. In the name of development, they killed the lakes to construct bus stations, stadiums, golf courses. Later, they handed over the water bodies on a platter to the real estate developers to continue.

Developmental activities that have taken place on lake beds:-

Kanteerava Stadium The busy Kempegowda Bus Station

Source: http://www.hindu.com/mp/2004/02/05/images/2004020500780401.jpg

In the late 1970s, state governments began infrastructure projects and one of the big casualties was the Dharmabudhi Lake. They converted it into the city bus terminal at Majestic opposite the railway station.

The KR Market, a busy traffic point, was also a water body a few decades ago which was the Lingambudhi kere (lake). One finds the

Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain Hospital, Ambedkar Bhavan, a few furniture stores and the Udaya TV office at a place where three beautiful lakes that is the Miller lakes existed in a row.

When the city hosted the National Games in 1996, an apartment complex was built on the lakebed in Koramangala. Today, the complex houses former bureaucrats and judges. As a result, the poor who reside in low-lying Ejipura that surrounds the National Games village are at the receiving end. The entire area gets flooded during the monsoon,

Jakkarayana Kere has become a maidan. The Challaghatta Lake, which fed the Bellandur Lake, is now a golf

course flanked by a star hotel. The Sampangi Lake that finds place in RK Narayan’s ‘A Grandmother’s

Tale’ had been occupied for the Kanteerava Indoor and Outdoor Stadiums.

That was only the beginning. Bangalore had four natural valleys. When the feeder lake was done away with, it was easy to kill the rest. 7

Effects of Urbanisation in Bangalore

Due to the process of Urbanization the population of Bangalore increased at a very high rate. The rapid growth of population resulted in a high demand for housing and intensive land use. In the wake of high growth of the city many lakes and tanks were denuded and converted into buildings and housing layouts. Indiscriminate breaching of tanks for development initiatives with a single focused agenda has caused significant damage to the chain of lakes. The inter connectivity which is an important feature of the waterways have been threatened and even losing its characteristics.

The marginal lands adjoining natural valleys, which were open spaces decades ago where the trunk sewers were laid, were encroached by buildings and sewage and sullage are let out into the storm water drains constructed in these valleys.

The encroachment in the catchment area has further added to inter connectivity problem. The loss of inter connectivity in the water bodies has resulted in the shrinkages of wetland area, reduction in water yield from the catchment and water holding capacity. In the absence of the channels that harvested flow of storm water along the natural slopes, water is now flowing away from Bangalore. This has affected the total rain water harvesting mechanism and capacity of Bangalore lakes.

Number of slums constructed on either side of valleys discharge wastewaters into the open drains. The damaged trunk sewers and direct discharge of sewage and sullage from the slums and buildings abutting the storm water drains in all the four valleys namely Hebbal Valley, Vrishabhavati Valley, Koramangala valley and Challaghatta valley had resulted in discharge of sewage into the lakes in the downstream side. 15

15. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/urbpop.html

It is a great pity that many lakes and ponds of Bangalore had already been lost in the process of urban development and rest of the surviving lakes are polluted with sewage

Source: “Prime land encroached, lake too in danger”, New Indian Express, 15-05-2007 A view of the 15-acre prime land in Chinnappanahalli near Marathahalli.

A 15-acre prime land (survey no. 20) worth crores of rupees has been encroached during the last few years. It is said that a quarry existed on the said land a few years ago and now it has become a manufacturing unit of hallow bricks. On May 5, 2005, Lake Development Authority had alerted Deputy Conservator of Forests about the encroachment of Chinnappanahalli Lake. On June 13, 2005, the LDA also requested Special Deputy Commissioner to conduct a survey. It is said that the Special Deputy Commissioner had promptly asked Assistant Commissioner (East) and Tahsildar to conduct a survey. 16

16 “Prime land encroached, lake too in danger”, New Indian Express, 15-05-2007

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070514231917

Immersion of idols

Source: http://www.indianmorning.com/images/ganpati1.jpg

In recent times, the Ganesha idols immersed during Ganesh Chathurthi has turned to be another major pollutant .The sacred ritual of immersing Ganesha idols in lakes is actually making an unholy mess of the environment. Immersion of idols after festivals is an old tradition in all parts of India. Urban settlements have limited water bodies which are accessible, so for the sake of convenience people have started using the few available lakes for the immersion of idols.

A study conducted by the Energy and Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore revealed the damage to the city's lakes and the surrounding water sources when idols are immersed in any of Bangalore's lakes. These studies conducted in Amruthalli, Ulsoor, Yediyur, Sankey and Rachenhalli lakes revealed the impact of eutrophication (the negative effect of broken down minerals) on surrounding water sources such as borewells, open wells, etc 17

17. “Better put your idols in a bucket at home”, By Kanak Hirani, 12 -08-2001, Times of India, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1252607769.cms

How do these idols pollute the lakes?

Idols are made up of clay, hay, cloth, paper, wood, thermocol, jute, adhesive material, and synthetic paints.

Among these materials used in making the idols, thermocol (polystyrene) is non-biodegradable.

The paints contain heavy metals such as chromium, lead, nickel, cadmium and zinc.

Immersion of idols after the rainy season allows the bio-degradable and non-biodegradable matter in the water bodies to settle down.

The bio-degradable matter is recycled while non-biodegradable substances form sediments and enter the food chain of the aquatic ecosystem.

According to IISc scientists, since water bodies such as lakes and ponds play a prominent role in the ecosystem in recharging ground water, irrigation or domestic use, water pollution due to heavy metals is a major cause of concern.

City lakes are becoming shallow due to indiscriminate disposal of solid wastes and immersion of idols, and some of them have turned in to bogs.

The water-holding capacity and natural drainage systems are altered due to accumulation of silt.

This also affects ground water recharging capability. 17

According to the KSPCB the following lakes have to be monitored during the Ganesha festival as they are most likely to be polluted by the idols: 18

List of Lakes which has to be Monitored during Ganesha Festival

1 Hebbal Lake 16 Jakkur Lake2 Bellandur Lake 17 Puttenahalli Lake (Yelahanka)3 Lalbagh Lake 18 Puttenahalli Lake (J.P Nagar)4 Jaragana Halli Lake 19 Kari Thimmanahalli Lake5 Yadiyur Lake 20 Kengeri Lake6 Kempambudi Lake 21 Maadavaara Lake7 Ulsoor Lake 22 Raachenahalli Lake8 Bennigana Halli Lake 23 Rampura Lake9 Agaram Lake 24 T. Dasarahalli Lake10Sankey Lake 25 Amblipura (Melinakere, Kelaginakere)11Nagavara lake 26 Hosakerehalli Lake12Vengayyana Lake 27 Kelagina kere Bhyrasandra13Yelemallappa Chetty Lake 28 Madivaala Lake14Doddabammasandra Lake 29 Sheelavanthana Lake

15Varthur Lake 30 Halagevaderahalli Lake

18. http://kspcb.kar.nic.in/lakeslist_ganesha_fest.htm (last visited on 12-07-2007)

Remedy:

The solution to the situation is not easy as the issue touches upon the sensitive topic of religion, but we can learn from the state of Andhra Pradesh. Encouraged and supported by the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, schools across the State which are already into `green activities' under the banner of National Green Corps (NGC), are busy letting children gain first-hand experience of making clay idols and thus prompting them to carry the message to their families and in the neighbourhood.The same thing can be implemented in our state too. The festival as such is quite eco-friendly. Even the prasadam, which is mainly steamed rice savouries, is also put in water. This helps the fish and other aquatic creatures, which feed on them and flourish. The traditional plants and leaves which the Ganesha is decorated with, contain medicinal value, and growing them becomes necessary giving way to plant conservation.19

From the ‘Save the lakes’ campaign, Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) had found a new way to encourage Bangaloreans to not use lakes to immerse their Ganesha idols after the festival. Mobile immersion tanks were taken out by the Board in different areas of the city so that people can immerse their idols in these tanks instead of immersing the idols in lakes which may gather silt after the festival .The BMP from 2003 had asked people not to immerse the idols as some 27 lakes in the city had been restored at a cost of 50 crore in recent years. The tanks were then taken to the Boards common effluent treatment plant in Peenya for treatment and the recycled water was used to water parks.20

19. “Go for eco-friendly idols”, S.B. Vijaya Mary, The Hindu, 09-09-2002 http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2002/09/09/stories/2002090900810100.htm

20. “Mobile Tanks to Aid Immersion at Home”, Deccan Herald, 15-09-2004

1. What are the Effects of Pollution on the Lakes of Bangalore?

Gone are the days when lakes were water bodies that washed the air clean, soothed the eye and refreshed the soul. Today, they are crammed with hyacinth, brimming with plastic waste and spilling over with sewage and of no use to tourists, fishermen, botanists or residents.

According to sec (2) (e) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 "pollution" means such contamination of water or such alteration of the physical, chemical or biological properties of water or such discharge of any sewage or trade effluent or of any other liquid, gaseous or solid substance into water (whether directly or indirectly) as may or is likely to, create a nuisance or render such water harmful or injurious to public health or safety, or to domestic, commercial, industrial, agricultural or other legitimate uses, or to the life and health of animals or plants or of aquatic organisms.

Without proper cognition of the growth pattern that followed phenomenal increase in the city population, the water bodies succumbed to indiscriminate human interference. In the absence of prerequisite planning for management of liquid and solid waste the city produces, all wastes were routinely dumped into the lakes or the channels.

Sewage from layouts was released to storm water drains in the valleys that used to flow in the lakes. These drains carried the polluted water into the lakes on the downstream making the water turbid and stinking. The quality of water was further affected by washing of cattle and vehicle. Water mixed with detergents, chemicals from the dhobi ghats made the lake water acidic.

2. Due to the presence of high percentage of pollutants, the lakes experienced an algal bloom. During day these algae released oxygen to the water but sucked it all up during night making it difficult to the organisms like fishes and aquatic plants to breathe and grow. This process is called "EUTROPHICATION" or lake death. 15

3.

4. The effects of pollution of lakes can be better understood by studying the impact of such contamination on groundwater, aquatic creatures, wildlife etc.

5.

6.

7.

Impact on Groundwater

The decrease of water bodies had its serious effect on the level of Ground Water. With around more than a lakh bore wells in the city, there was overexploitation of existing ground water.

In the absence of effective recharging of ground water by the lakes, it was a logical consequence that the city faced shortage of water.

A study from the Department of Mines & Geology, Government of Karnataka in 1985 highlighted the depth at which ground water was available had fallen to 250-300 feet from 35-40 feet in past 20 years.

Reduction in the number of the water bodies and higher rate of retrieval than discharge capacity have caused inefficiency in their function as the recharge zones of ground water in the city area. The resultant water shortage is the result of a depleted level of ground water and lack of recharging capacity. It has also reduced the moisture in air in turn resulting into change in the micro-climate of Bangalore.

The seepage of toxic contents in the lake due to sewage, infestation of weeds etc., the sub soil water that could be retrieved in the bore wells for domestic use is now contaminated with harmful toxic substances. 21

Impact on Aquatic Fauna

Large-scale episodal mortality among the freshwater fishes of certain lakes of Bangalore City, Karnataka State, India occurred in June 1995.

Fresh waters have also been polluted by sewage, industrial effluents and pesticides. Many of these toxins accumulate in bodies of animals high up in the food web like some predatory fish, and of course, humans. The consequent health hazards are slowly being uncovered, as in the Minamata disaster in Japan when many defective infants were born to mothers consuming fish that had accumulated heavy metals in their bodies. Apart from human health hazards pollution surely results in considerable loss of biodiversity.22

21. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/grdwater.html

22. “Wetlands and Fish”, by Madhav Gadgil, Deccan Herald, 29-12-2001

http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/gadgil.html

IMPACT ON WILDLIFE

In the early decades of the 20th century, the Great Indian Bustard, a rare birds species, was a regular visitor to Bangalore city. So was the Lesser Florican, sighted at the turn of the century. Now both are not to be found as the wetlands and grassland they frequented for nesting have vanished.

Gandhi Nagar, Shankarapuram and Mavalli had vast areas of mango groves and their destruction and subsequent conversion into layouts sounded the death knell for the Loras, White-Eyes, Garblers and Fly-catchers. These birds were attracted by the multitude of insect species which thrived in the groves. The Stone Curlew, which had made the area its home, was another victim.

Black Bucks were spot in Malleshwaram four decades ago. Today, one has to go either to Tumkur or Davangere. From an area of two sq kms in l537 to 6I sq km. in 1961, Bangalore has grown rapidly since then to occupy 360 sq. km. in 1994 and this has directly affected the habitation of birds such as Babblers, Resident Shirkes, the Redheaded Merlin and the Redstart.

A waterfowl census, carried out recently has indicated an alarming decrease. Ornithologists, wildlife experts and bird watchers warn that the situation may worsen if no action is taken immediately. Once dotted with vast open spaces, parks and tanks, Bangalore is now metamorphising into a concrete jungle.

Mr. Karthik, bird watcher, points out that over 20 per cent of the country's avians could be found in Bangalore. Besides, the city is perhaps the only one In the country where birds from the grasslands, shrubs and forests converged.

Host to a variety of avian species not found anywhere else, ornithologists point out that Bangalore attracts migratory birds from as far as the Himalayas and Central Asia. The abundance of tanks and water bodies gardens and parks are the primary reason. 23

123 species of birds:

Bird numbers and the pattern of species distribution has undergone a sea change since Kempe Gowda founded Bangalore In 1537. The area between Shivaganga and Domlur was covered in dense Jungle, host to 123 bird species. The Jungle Bush Quail, Wood shrike, White-Browned Bulbul, Crow Pheasant and Grey Partridge were regular

denizens. Bangalore was also dotted with over 400 tanks and lakes but their degradation over the last three decades has ensured that only 130 remain. Of these, only 80 are worth preserving. 23

Systematic vandalism of tank beds and wetlands has pushed out several species of birds out. Ironically, efforts to clean tanks and lakes by weeding out shrubs, building bunds and walling them up have in a way affected. The hyacinth in tanks and lakes had favoured wetland birds such as the Purple Moorhen, Pond Heron and Cattle Egret. The filling up of the tanks and lakes to preserve the remaining tanks by cleaning the tank bed of shrubs and water hyacinth along with the conversion of paddy fields around the city has posed a major threat to these birds.

Walling up shore lines of tanks such as Sankey Tank and Ulsoor Lake is another retrograde step. Mr. Bates, an ornithologist, had sighted two Little Grebe nests near the banks in 1931. Another ornithologist, Mr. Worth, had sighted a Green Heron in 1953. But with the waters of these tanks getting stagnant and having been walled up, the species are not to be seen any more.

Indiscriminate quarrying in and around the city has affected nesting patterns. Affected nesting patterns, which preferred rocky places to roost, have fled to the outskirts. The bird is found nowhere except at the tri-junction of the States of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Hebbal Lake will scare away the birds as was seen to happen at Madivala Lake. Experts worry that the two lakes could go the way of Yediyur Lake, which is almost `dead'. With layouts coming up on all its sides and with sewage flowing from the nearby areas, it has no inlet for fresh water. Nor does it have an outlet for that matter. No living form will visit a sewage cesspool.

The removal of bulrushes from the shores and tanks has hit the water birds. The shrubs provided an ideal nesting ground for the Streaked Weavers. Once cleared, as in Sankey Lake, these birds vanished. The Charadrid Waders, which once frequented Hebbal Lake, are no longer seen as the shore line has shrunk.

Hebbal Lake alone was home to over 70 species of water birds including 40 from the Himalayan and Central Asian regions. Incidentally, it was one of the three lakes founded in 1537 by Kempe Gowda. Constant inflow of sewage water and indiscriminate construction as affected is perhaps the formula that has destroyed Bangalore's birdlife. 23

23. “The Way we were – Disappearing Birdlife”, http://www.indiaexpress.com/bangalore/eureka/birds.html

Authorities In charge of Water Bodies in Bangalore

The Ministry of Environment and Forests, of the Government of India, is responsible for the planning, promotion, co-ordination and overseeing the implementation of environmental and forestry programmes in India. The Ministry is also the Nodal agency in the country for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The principal activities undertaken by Ministry of Environment and Forests consist of conservation and survey of flora, fauna, forests and Wildlife, prevention and control of pollution, afforestation and regeneration of degraded areas and protection of environment, in the frame work of various national legislations and international conventions.

India is a signatory to all the major international environmental conventions, and the Ministry of Environment is the nodal agency for most of them such as the Convention of Biological Diversity, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, Convention on Control of Desertification and the Ramsar Convention.

The Government of India has taken many measures to control water pollution and improve the water quality in all inland waters since the Stockholm Conference, 1972. India was among the first countries to adopt legislation, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act in 1974. Soon after the formation of a separate Ministry and India’s joining the Ramsar Convention in 1981, the Ministry set up a National Wetlands Committee in 1983 and initiated a programme of wetland conservation. The Committee initiated a survey and inventory of important wetlands in the country. It was reconstituted as National Wetland Management Committee in March 1987 under the chairmanship of the Secretary of the Ministry. The Committee identified several lakes and wetlands for their conservation and management. The Ministry recognized the need for a separate programme for the conservation of lakes, particularly the urban lakes because of their special need for prevention and control of pollution by domestic sewage from urban areas. The National Lake Conservation Plan was, however, launched formally in 2001. Conservation measures have been initiated in 21 lakes in 8 states which includes several smaller lakes in Karnataka. The National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) is also

responsible for the administration and implementation of the National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP). 24

The Ministry has undertaken an exercise, with the assistance of the National Institute of Ecology, for the identification and prioritization of lakes for support under the NLCP. The State Governments have also been asked to undertake similar exercise for prioritization within their states. Some states have set up state level Lake Development Authorities for the conservation of specific lakes or all the lakes within the state.

The conservation and management plans include, besides the interception and treatment of wastewaters before their entry into the lakes, a variety of activities such as:

Catchment improvement Shoreline protection In-lake treatments (aeration, deweeding, desiltation, bioremediation and

biomanipulation) Improvement of recreational facilities in and around the lake in order to

ensure public interest and participation. 24

Maintenance of Lakes in Bangalore has been a vexed function given that a number of governmental bodies have ownership as well as responsibility for maintenance has meant a lack of coherent and focused approach. The governmental bodies that have responsibility of the lakes in some way or the other include Forest Department, Minor Irrigations Department, Horticulture Department, Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BMP), Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Tourism Department, City Municipal Councils and Panchayats. Large number of bodies having ownership and responsibility for maintenance has led to a situation where each department is busy passing the buck and washing its hands off maintenance, which in turn has meant destruction of many lakes, either through encroachment or pollution. This further has reduced the number of visible lakes to 33, out of which only 15 are in some stage of being healthy water bodies. This is a very serious issue not only for the ecology and bio diversity but also for the traditional users of lakes, whose livelihood is linked to the health of these water bodies. Chief minister N. Dharam Singh in October, 2005 had said that the government was planning to amend laws to hand over maintenance of lakes in and around the city from the Department of Forests to the BMP or the BDA. 25

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on 22-05-2007 said that the State Government proposed to hand over the lakes in the city limits to BMP and those on the outskirts to the BDA. On the proposal of handing over lakes to BDA and BMP, chief executive officer (CEO) BK Singh declined to comment. 26

24. http://envfor.nic.in25. “Lake maintenance may be handed over to BDA or BMP”, The Hindu, 30-10-2005

http://www.thehindu.com/2005/10/30/stories/2005103020180300.htm26. “Lakes may go to BMP and BDA”, http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?

ID=IE120070521235229

Lake Development Authority

Source: http://www.ibnlive.com/news/blore-lakes-struggle-for-survival/39176-3.html?xml

Given this background, the government of Karnataka through a government order dated 10th July 2002, set up the Lake Development Authority (LDA), the first of its kind in the country, as a registered society, which was meant to be a non-profit organization, whose objective was to work for the regeneration and conservation of lakes in Bangalore district as well as other cities, municipal corporations in the state of Karnataka.

According to the Preamble of the Memorandum of Association of the LDA, given that the responsibility of conservation and regeneration of the lakes rests with a number of Government Departments and agencies, conservation of these lakes also requires large sums of money and therefore to meet the needs of integrated lake development, the Department of Ecology and Environment proposed the constitution of the LDA.

The objective of LDA stated in the Memorandum of Association is, “An autonomous, regulatory, planning and policy making body with nodal functions for protection, conservation, restoration, regeneration and integrated development of lakes, whether natural or man made”. The functions of the LDA are listed out as follows:

Restoring lakes and facilitation of restoration of depleting ground water table. Impounding run-off water to ensure recharge of ground water aquifers and revival of bore wells. Monitoring and management of water quality and lake ecology.

Diverting/treating sewage to generate alternative sources of raw water and preventing contamination of underground aquifers from wastewater.

Environmental Impact Assessment studies. Environmental mapping and GIS mapping of lakes and surrounding areas.

Improving and creating habitat for water birds and wild plants. Reducing sullage and non-point water impacts.

Improving urban sanitation and health condition especially of the weaker section living close to the lakes.

Utilizing the lake for the purpose of education and tourism. Community participation and public awareness programmes for lake conservation. 27

27. IMPACT OF PRIVATISATION OF LAKES IN BANGALORE, Rohan D'Souzahttp://www.doccentre.net/docsweb/Rohan_final_report_lakes_privatisation.php#Lake_Development_AuthorityIt also details the governing council as well as the other bodies that have been created for the smooth functioning of this body.

The governing council consists of the following: Chief Secretary – Govt. of Karnataka Additional Chief Secretary – Govt. of Karnataka Principal Secretary – Finance Department Principal Secretary – Planning Science and Technology Department Principal Secretary – Ecology and Environment Department Principal Secretary – Urban Development Department. Principal Secretary – Minor Irrigation Department Principal Secretary – Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Department Principal Secretary – Tourism & Youth Services Department Secretary – Ecology and Environment Department Commissioner – Bangalore Mahanagara Palike Member Secretary – Karnataka State Pollution Control Board Chairman – Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board Chief Executive Officer – Lake Development Authority and some

prominent citizens.

The functions and powers of the Empowered Committee are: Seeking funds for the regeneration/development/maintenance of lakes. Grant Approval for the Detailed Project Reports to be submitted to

Ministry of Environment and Forests under the Lake Conservation Plan. Grant approvals for the works to be taken up by following due process

under the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements Act, 2000 Powers to constitute any sub-committee/s for the above purposes.

The creation of this body, though seen as a welcome move initially, given the bad condition of the lakes in Bangalore due to both encroachment and pollution, if seen from an administrative point of view, is really adding to the conundrum of existing bodies governing various aspects of Karnataka and Bangalore.

Even though as can be seen above, the constitution of the LDA’s Governing Council and Empowered Committee involves various government stakeholder bodies with powers to not only frame laws, but also set up task forces and committees in areas related to lake maintenance as well as seek funds for maintenance of lakes, there has been very little cooperation between the LDA and other bodies. Rather than working together, there has already been an instance where the blame game has been indulged in.

The authority has identified 608 small, medium sized and large lakes within the BDA limits, and nearly 2,000 other water bodies which come within the BMRDA for reclamation. LDA’s functioning in the four years since its inception, has been autocratic

and autonomous, making all the bodies as well as powers and functions, listed under the Memorandum of Association seem redundant. 27

The poor functioning of the LDA has even led the Chief Minister, Mr.H.D.Kumaraswamy to criticized this body in public and contemplate handing back the maintenance of lakes to the BDA and BMP.25

A Critical Look at the Conception of the Lake Development Authority

By putting in place a dedicated wing of the government to focus on the upkeep of lakes, one could argue there would be focus through specialized and exclusive manpower as well as budgets, thereby giving the lakes the attention and energy they require. But on the flipside, due to jurisdictional complexities, how much authority does the LDA have over lakes that fall into different jurisdictional areas is what is yet to be resolved. Also the fact that the LDA constitutes a range of bodies adds to the complications that would inevitably arise out of inter departmental coordination and interfaces. What also needs to be considered is that a para-statal body like the LDA may not be so concerned about traditional uses and users of lakes and be more focused only on the ecological and to some extent the beautification aspect of the lakes.

Bangalore as such is governed by various entities such as the BMP, BDA, BMRDA, City CMC, Panchayats et al. Therefore the bodies in whose areas, the lakes fall being divested of authority over these water bodies point to a more complex question as to what the roles of lakes are, as seen in the city of Bangalore.

Due to the increased urbanization of the city and thereby the corresponding change in life style, one could say that very few lakes in Bangalore city limits are used for the last mentioned role, i.e., provision of direct source of water for daily/livelihood needs. Given this, one could say that a body like the LDA, which has powers at the State level may not be so sympathetic to this function of the lake, rather be more concerned with the maintenance of the water quality of the lake only and maybe to a certain extent, conservation of life forms that are dependent or are part of the lake ecosystem. Also given the increasing demand to make public spaces more into leisure, tourist spots rather than to maintain their traditional role, there has been the development of a beautification approach to maintenance of lakes. Therefore, the focus of LDA would not be so much concerned with the social/traditional role that a lake plays to the people dependent on lake water. This assumption is borne out by the fact that the LDA has already leased out three lakes to private parties, of which one is Nagavara tank, where the lake and its surroundings have been leased to Lumbini Developers to create an amusement/water park.

The other contradiction that has come in by setting up of this body is that the government has vested in it powers to maintain only the water body and some part of the shore line, completely ignoring the role shore and adjoining lands play in the overall maintenance and health of a lake. 27

The control and maintenance of land bodes adjoining to the lakes are in the hands of district wise bodies like the BDA, BMRDA, BMP or the more local bodies like the CMCs and panchayats.

This separation of land from water and thereby separate maintenance, further makes the situation more complex, not seeing the lake as a continuum with land and thereby in a way not seeing water in a utility context, as an extension and an essential part of land and its inhabitants. 27

Initiatives to Save Lakes

The International year for Freshwater (IYF) was the year 2003 and it received its official launch at a ceremony at the United Nations in New York on December 12. The aim of the Year was to raise awareness of the importance of protecting and managing freshwater. The UN General Assembly resolution proclaiming the Year was initiated by the Government of Tajikistan and supported by 148 other countries. The resolution encouraged governments, the UN system and all related bodies to take advantage of the Year to increase awareness of the importance of sustainable use, management and protection of freshwater. 28

Conservation of wetland: The observance of Wetlands Day is meant to improve public awareness about the importance of wetlands.

World Wetlands Day (WWD) was celebrated for the first time on February 2, 1997, on the 16th anniversary of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, by 18 countries. Today the Convention has 135 members. Ramsar is the only global environment treaty dealing with a particular ecosystem.

The convention aims at the conservation and wise use of wetlands as a means to achieving sustainable development throughout the world. The countries that signed the contract committed to include internationally important wetlands in the Ramsar List and ensure the maintenance of the ecological character of each site. India is also a party to the treaty.

The emphasis of the convention in the early years was on the listed Ramsar sites. More than 550 wetlands throughout the world are protected under this treaty and considered as ‘Ramsar sites’. Originally, wetlands were seen as a habitat for waterfowl. Today great importance is given to the wise use of wetlands and on linking them to national land use and water management strategies.

WWD is celebrated by government, non-governmental and others which seminars, lectures, competitions and other programs. Increasing public awareness helps communities to protect their local wetlands and their important values and functions. The Ramsar convention links wetlands with the culture, livelihoods and traditions of local people and the importance of this relation in the conservation of wetlands. It is important for the local communities to be involved in the protection of wetlands. 11

28. http://www.unesco.org/water/iyfw2/index.shtml

Wetlands Day is highly significant for a country like India which has a varied terrain and climate and which supports a rich diversity of inland and coastal wetland habitats. Wetland habitats in India have been destroyed by draining and land filling. Wetlands are also severely disturbed by over-exploitation of fish resources, pollution, choking by exotic weeds and other human pressures. It is reported that one third of Indian wetlands have already been wiped out or got severely degraded. 11

The International Lake Environment Committee Foundation (ILEC), formed in 1986 is an international non-governmental organization (NGO), and was given legal status in 1987 by the Japanese Environment Agency and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

ILEC was organized with the aim of promoting environmentally sound management of natural and man-made lakes and their environments consistent with sustainable development policies by promoting international research and investigation, and by facilitating the exchange of findings and knowledge among the experts throughout the world.29

According to a survey conducted by the Director of Urban Research Centre, K.V.Narendra during 1992-1993 more than 19.5 % of the total 2301.02 acres of tank area were already encroached which in terms of real estate amounts to over Rs. 100 crore. That was the last comprehensive survey of its kind, acting on the survey the then state government mooted the implementation of a National Lake Conservation Plan with the Forest Department as the nodal agency. The prestigious NLCP which promised to conserve 144 lakes in and around the city at a cost of Rs. 21 crore was placed before the centre in 1995. But it was non-responsive. 30

29. http://www.ilec.or.jp , http://www.taal2007.org/ilec.asp

30. “Encroachers put Bangalore’s Lakes on endangered list’ by P.M Raghunandan, The New Indian Express, 14-08-2001

The National River Conservation Project planned to restore Nagavara, Vengaiahnakere, Sarakki and Kamakshipalya Lakes in Bangalore within two-and-a-half years. The Centre decided to chip in with 70% of the cost, while the state would contribute the rest. Pegged at a restoration cost of Rs. 12.35 crore, the Centre had agreed to chip in 70 percent of the total cost, while that state agencies contributed the rest, within a scheduled deadline of two-and- half years. At the time, Deputy Conservator of Forests Vijay Kumar Gogi had said “This is the first time the NLCP has identified lakes on their development projects in the state," These lakes were selected based on their location in the river system and their tourism potential. 30

Another funding agency under the Indo-Norwegian Environment project (INEP) had identified restoration of Doddabommasandra Lake at a cost of Rs. 2.3 crore. The INEP, with its earlier aid, contributed to the restoration of Hebbal and Madiwala lakes in the city. Of the 114 lakes entrusted to the forest department for restoration in the city, 25 fresh water lakes have already been tackled by setting up fences and creating vegetation boundaries with afforestation programmes. 31

Understanding the urgent need to restore and protect lakes, the Government of Karnataka constituted an Expert Committee vide G.O. No. PWD-82-IMB85, dated 26.07.85 headed by Shri N. Lakshman Rau, to study the problems and suggest remedies for the preservation and restoration of the existing lakes in the metropolitan area of Bangalore City.

31. wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/central.html, “Central project to give new life to four lakes”, By Paawana Poonacha

Summary of recommendations of the Expert Committee:

Existing tanks should not be breached but retained as water bodies; Efforts should be made to ensure that these tanks are not polluted by

discharge of effluent and industrial wastes; Further, to prevent silting up of these tanks, off-shore development is to be

taken up by large scale tree planting and also removal of encroachments; Those tanks which have already been breached should not be utilised for

formation of sites but taken up to create tree parks; Existing tanks should be de-weeded and aquatic life must be developed; The tank areas where there is no atchkat are to be handed over to the

Forest Department for formation of tree parks / foreshore tree planting and formation of regional parks.

The tank areas where there is no atchkat are to be handed over to the Forest Department for formation of tree parks / foreshore tree planting and formation of regional parks.

Implementation of the recommendations should be reviewed periodically. For this purpose, the Forest Department, Bangalore Development Authority, Bangalore City Corporation, Minor Irrigation Department, Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board and Town Planning Department may be involved.

The responsibility for the maintenance of water bodies in a clean and safe condition should be with Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board.

The possibility of construction of more tanks along the natural valleys which now have a run-off water should be examined and implementation taken up.

46 of the 127 tanks in the city’s metropolitan area have been diffused. The land area of which is more than the area of the 81 surviving tanks

The happy result of the committee report may be seen in the restoration of the Ulsoor Lake and the Yediyur Tank. 32

The forest department and the Bangalore City Corporation (BCC) have now started at least identifying lakes, a majority of which are just tank bed areas with hyacinth or wetlands encroached upon by land grabbers on all sides. The tank status mapping project has helped in tracking encroachers and cordoning off areas where a court stay order has been taken. 33

32. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/initiatives.html

33. “For lake’s sake: The saga of a struggle”, http://envfor.nic.in

Various voluntary initiatives like the one by the Centre for Ecological Studies, Indian Institute of Science, Karnataka Environment Research Foundation and STEM have yet to take wings, as the forest department, the BDA, the BCC and the minor irrigation departments say they have to grapple for funds for such development work. The frequent transfers of the deputy conservator of forests who is the key official in charge of restoring lakes, affects work. HUDCO, an agency that usually lends money for house and road constructions had come forward to chip in for lake development in the city. The Norwegian fund given for the improvement of Hebbal and Madiwala lakes is a one-time aid given by the Indo-Norwegian Environment Project. 33

The tank maintenance committee instituted under the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Rules, 2006 had said that they would hand over 100 rejuvenated lakes in 9 districts of Karnataka to the local communities under the first phrase on 6th of April, 2006 and the total number of tanks taken up by the committee for restoration was 1423. The committee was responsible for improvement and management of all land, water and other natural resources in the tank area and all common lands forming part of the tank system. 2

As part of World Environment Day celebrations, in June this year, the BBMP took up an intensive cleaning programme of Ulsoor, Yediyur and Sankey lakes. June was considered the “Environmental month’. Planting programmes were also organized in the selected BBMP parks and lakes to create awareness among the public. Medicinal plants were distributed in the parks.

List of parks, lakesEast Zone: Jayamahal Park, Kempe Gowda Park, Laxmidevi Park, Kumara Park West, Ulsoor Lake.West Zone: Nandini Layout Park, JP Park, SJP Park, Aladamara Park, Sankey Tank. South Zone: Yediyur Lake, MN Krishna Rao Park, Bhavi Park, KEB Layout Park-BTM layout, Kuvempu Park-BTM Layout. 34

34. “Lakes clean up drive”, Deccan Herald, 05-06-2007, http://www.deccanherald.com/Content/Jun52007/city200706055742.asp

Source: http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070604002908

As part of the World Environment Day celebrations, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) on Sunday organised the cleaning of Benniganahalli Lake.

Various educational institutions and NGOs participated in the cleanliness drive, apart from the BDA’s forest department.

BDA Commissioner M K Shankarlinge Gowda said all the lakes falling under the BDA’s jurisdiction would be maintained by the BDA so that people can visit them in their leisure time.

The authority plans to take up the task of clearing all the domestic, plastic, sewerage and paper waste, apart from clearing the weeds and beautifying the lakes. 35

35. “BDA plunges into lake cleaning drive”, 04-06-2007, http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070604002908

Legislations, Policies and Reports Regarding Waterbodies in Bangalore

According to Schedule VII of the Constitution of India, 1950, the states are empowered to make laws regarding water. Entry 17 of the State list defines water as,

‘water supplies, irrigation and canals, drainage and embankments, water storage and water power’.

The authorities and the lakes in general are governed and scrutinized by the following Acts and Reports respectively:

The Lakshman Rau Committee Report

The government set up a Committee in 1986 under the chairmanship of Lakshman Rau, IAS (Retd), Chairman, Local Finance Commission to look specifically into the preservation and restoration of lakes in Bangalore metropolitan area.

The Lakshman Rau Committee report had recommended that no layout be formed in tank bed areas either by the BDA or any other authority.

The committee further recommended that water sheets should be maintained wherever possible and sewerage and other pollutants should be suitably diverted. Another recommendation of the Committee was that dried lakes be developed as tree parks. As far as converting dried lakes into parks, the authority performance on that as well has been abysmal, with not one case of tree parks being developed in such areas, but instead diversion of such areas for real estate development.

The BDA itself has built layouts on no less than 27 lakebeds Sewage and industrial waste is being directly pumped into many lakes as in the cases of Bellandur Lake, Varthur Lake, Agaram Lake and many others. In the case of Bellandur Lake, where a Sewerage Treatment Plant has been set up upstream, low capacity of the plant has resulted in most of the untreated sewerage being let out into the lake. In the specific cases of Varthur and Bellandur, farmers have been very directly affected. Their crops have suffered due to using these polluted waters for irrigation purposes.36

36. http://www.doccentre.net/docsweb/Rohan_final_report_lakes_privatisation.php

The Karnataka High Court had ordered issuance of notices to the BCC, LDA and KSPCB following a PIL stating that kaggadaspura, Byrasandra and Doddanekundi lakes were encroached upon.37

The Karnataka High Court had stayed the proceedings pending before the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) pursuant to the auctioning of the Byarasandra tank bed area to recover the loan due to the Indian Overseas bank from the private builder. A division bench comprised of Chief Justice N.K.Jain and Justice K.L.Manjunath passed the interim order on a PIL filed by RBI staff and Others of the Co-Operative Housing Society. The Indian Overseas Bank, Jayanagar branch, had auctioned 15 acres 11 guntas of land [tank bed] to recover the loan given to a private land developing firm. The firm, claiming the ownership of the tank bed, had secured the loan in 1996 by mortgaging the land. The bank after getting clearance from DRT auctioned the land on February 4th. 38

Karnataka State Water Policy

Importance: Karnataka unveiled its first ever water policy in 2002, which in the context of an escalating water crisis facing many parts of the state assumes significance. Water, though a renewable natural resource is by no means "an inexhaustible or infinite element”, which could be squandered without a thought for tomorrow. The widely projected fashionable thesis that future wars will be fought over water needs to be taken rather seriously. As it is, the Cauvery water dispute between the Tamil Nadu and Karnataka has been a trigger of civil disturbances in both the states. Rightly and appropriately, the Karnataka water policy takes cognizance of the ground reality that a finite supply position coupled with a growing demand could compound water scarcity in the year ahead.

Problems Faced:

a) The per capita availability of water in Karnataka too has been dwindling in keeping with the national trend.

b) Clearly and apparently, there is no way to augment the state's water resources except through all round saving and intensive rain water harvesting. 39

37. “Notices to BCC on lakes”, Times of India, 23-09-200538. “HC stays proceedings on tank bed area case”, Deccan Herald, 17-03-2005

39. “Will it Hold Water?” By Radhakrishna Rao

http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/will.html

Salient Features:

a) The salient features of Karnataka's water policy includes the setting up of a water Resources Development Board,

b) Assigning the responsibility of management of water resources projects to water users’ co-operative societies.

c) Levying water user charges and involving private outfits in the design, implementation and management of water resources projects.

d) While fixing quantum of water for various sectors, the policy has given priority to drinking water, followed by irrigation, hydroelectric power, aquaculture, agro-industries and non agro industries.

e) H K Patil, Ministers for water resources Development, had highlighted the fact that over 61 Lakhs hectares of land in the state would be brought under irrigation over the next five years.

f) Of this, around 45 Lakhs hectares would be covered under major irrigation projects. However, the proposal to complete the command area development by 2006 as envisaged in the water policy - through a 12 point action plan appears far fetched.

g) The other priority area referred to in the policy is promotion of participatory irrigation management and repairs and maintenance of the existing projects.

h) The policy also points out that top priority will be given to the construction of canals and field irrigation channels in the shortest possible time.

i) On the cost and benefits aspects of the water resources projects, the policy says, "investments have been spread too thinly over a large number of ongoing and new irrigation projects. Cost and time overruns have led to more expenditure and less commensurate benefits."

j) Perhaps the most significant part of the policy is the proposal to provide water to the extent of 56 liters per day person in rural areas, 70 liters in town, and 100 liters in city municipal councils and 135 liters in the city Corporation areas.

k) The policy is clear in its perception that groundwater resources getting depleted at a rapid pace due to its indiscriminate use, the demand for drinking water would need to be met through other alternative means.

l) The policy says that over the next two decades, the water supply system for larger habitations would need to be based on surface water sources

m) In the backdrop of the incidence of water-borne disease, in many rural settlements of the state, the policy has recognized the ground reality by stating that in about 4500 villages the ground water as contaminated as it is by excessive iron and fluoride - is unfit for human consumption. 39

Drawbacks of the Policy

a) Perhaps the most glaring drawback of the policy as highlighted by Rajendra based NGO Tarun Bharat Sangh is its failure to incorporate a proposal aimed at empowering Gram Panchayats to manage water resources.

b) He observed that facilitating of the community ownership of the water resources is the best option to counter the move to commodity our water resources.

c) He also drove home the point that water is the next resources that would be marketed by multinationals.

d) Involving people in the implementation, operation and use of water resources projects could alone thwart the efforts of vested interests to "market water resources like other consumer goods."

Recommendations:

Perhaps Karnataka could replicate the experience of "Pani Panchayats" and "water users’ co-operatives" active in many parts of the country. In many pockets of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, community involvement has resulted in the judicious exploitation and proper distribution of water resources. 39

Annexure: Agaram Lake

Location: Between Bangalore- Sarjapur road.

Statistics: It is under the purview of the Forest Department and it plans to rejuvenate and develop the lake with assistance from Hudco.

Problems: Agaram lake started deteriorating over a period of time following the discharge of sewage and silt by storm water from Madivala, BTM layout, Tilaknagar, Byrasandra and J.P. Nagar. This increased silt deposits hindering the free flow of water and decreasing the lake’s water holding capacity. According to BDA officials, the amount of water and silt reaching agaram lake ranged between 70-100 million liters per day. During the rainy season this would increase to around 2000 million liters per day, said the4 deputy conservator of forest at the BDA.1

Causes: From a survey on the water quality of two lakes in agaram lake system of Bangalore show that COD values ranging from 83mg/1 to 23mg/1 and BOD values from 8mg/1 to 5mg/1. The highest COD values are presumably due to discharge of industrial waste located in the catchments areas of these lake systems. The highest BOD values are due to discharge of sewage from the surrounding habitations, which so far had not been provided with sewage treatment plants.

Work done: Extremely conscious of the growing pollution levels in the city and the

deterioration of natural resources, BDA has taken the responsibility of rejuvenating Agaram Lake that had almost dried up. The Agaram Lake has been completely desilted and converted into attractive water body.

The Karnataka forest department has recovered 12 acres of land worth Rs.6 crores in the Agaram tank bed area in the city which has been encroached upon by local residents and builders. Bangalore Urban Division Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF). S.Shantappa and the BMTF (Bangalore Metropolitan task Force) recovered the land. About 12 sheds and shops which had come up on the tank bed area were demolished.

More than 100 volunteers got down in Agaram Lake to clear plastic and other filth in a cleanliness drive jointly organized by Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) and Bangalore Environment Trust (BET) on 2 April, 2007.Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), BDA, B.Venkatesh had said the cleanliness drive would continue for another year. He had also promised that they would organize such drives once in three months.2

________________________________________________________________________

1. “Land on Agaram Tank Area Recovered”, The Deccan Herald, 17-12-20002. “Residents clean up Agaram lake bed”, 02-04-2000 http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070401234851

Activities: Once a cess pool, it is now the retreat place for natural lovers. The water birds have promptly returned to their favourite haunt. The walkways, lagoons and islands created within the lake also bear a robust

testimony of a re-energized ecosystem of flora and fauna.

Funds: BDA has allotted Rs. 4.38 crores for the restoration of Agaram Lake. 2

HEBBAL LAKE

Source: http://www.bangaloreline.com/images/hebballake-1.jpgHistory: It was called as the “Anglers' Paradise”.3 The artificial lake, spread over 60 hectares, was built long ago blocking a valley.4

It is a natural lake. Before 1984, the lake had a distinct seasonal cycle. It would get filled during the monsoon and invariably go dry in the summer. It had a big variety of aquatic vegetation and a large number of birds lived

around it.5 Hebbal Lake was home to over 70 species of water birds including 40 from the Himalayan and Central Asian regions. Incidentally, it was one of the three lakes founded in 1537 by Kempe Gowda. Constant inflow of sewage water and indiscriminate construction as affected is perhaps the formula that has destroyed Bangalore's birdlife. 6

It is maintained by the state forest department. 7

Spotted dove Purple Moorhen Source:http://bangalore.metblogs.com/archives/2007/03/hebbal_lake_1.phtml

___________________________________________________________________________________

3. “Norwegian PM Inspects Hebbal Lake”, The Hindu, 24-04-2001.4. “De-silting Hebbal Lake worries experts”19-06-2007, New Indian Express,

http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070618235827 5. “Makeover of Hebbal Lake is for Sure”, http://www.bangalorebest.com/timepass/Hebbal.asp6. “The Way we were – Disappearing Birdlife”, http://www.indiaexpress.com/bangalore/eureka/birds.html7. “Hebbal Lake”,http://www.bangaloreline.com/travel/hebballake.html

Statistics: It is above 60 acres4 / nearly150 acres 5. It covers 64.50 acres with a catchment area of about 2,393.75 hectares. 3

Location: North Bangalore, along Bellary road just beside the Hebbal flyover off the Bangalore- Hyderabad Highway.3

Facilities: The lake has a chain of restaurants, aqua scooters and much more .It also includes

a children park, medical care centre, arch bridges, boating jetty and a handicraft and curio gift centre. 5

A well maintained park attached to the lake is a major attraction for the public. It is also a nice location for birding.8 A small park and a jogging track is also created. Boating facilities are also available to the people. 9

Importance: The water in the lake is used for irrigation and house hold purposes.

Problems:

A view of Hebbal Lake covered with hyacinth. Source:http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070517001429

The water has been pumped out the whole water sheet rendering it bone-dry where youngsters play cricket and other games. 4

Hebbal Lake is now reduced to an inlet of sewage, stormwater, drains and cattle bathing purposes. Hebbal Lake which received water from catchment areas which covered localities like Yeshwantpur, Mathikere, RMV, BEL and HMT colonies inflow of untreated sewerage and effluents. Sewage inflow from neighbouring localities has badly disturbed the ecological system and water hyacinth is choking the lake and its inhabitants. 5

8. “Birding Spots In and Around Bangalore” by Sudhir Shivaram, http://www.thejunglelook.com/Info/bangalore.html

9. “Hebbal lake: Getting help from HELPA”, Times of India, 29-05-2001 by Sangeeta Cavale, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/249564773.cms

Heavy silting and nitrification are common problems.9

Local residents let sewage into the lake. Within a few years of restoration the lake lost s glory. With no facility to treat sewerage water that flows in the lake from nearby dwellings, the lake water turned into sewerage sludge. And then the hyacinth menace spread across the lake. With the forest department and the Lake Development Authority turning a blind eye, the hyacinth has choked the lake without any mercy. ‘‘The lack of maintenance of the lake is the main problem’’ said an LDA official. 9

Desilting:

The desilting work which was going on at Hebbal Lake had raised eyebrows of many environmentalists. Experts say undertaking the desilting work just before monsoon was not a prudent move. Neither the work would get completed before rains nor would it be thorough work as the Lake was dry. Urban ecologist M B

Krishna said that such steps were very harmful to aqua-life and birds. “De-silting a part of the lake is not harmful, but covering the whole lake at one go is not desirable. Further, this is the wrong time to execute the work. The winged friends are hard hit. Some birds require shallow, marshy and sloppy areas. The desilting work will deny them this,” he said. “De-silting of lakes should not be taken up just before the monsoon showers. It looks like they want to cover-up something. It’s also important to ensure that the island in the lake is split so that it holds water in between,” added Krishna. Bio-diversity Expert Harish Bhatt said that lake water should not have been completely drained of aqua-life. The total destruction of aqua-life would deny the birds and other micro-organisms a chance to survive. “They have dried the whole lake, and it yields bad results. Desilting should be done scientifically, by not hampering the eco-system. Since the lake is leased, desilting should be done under strict supervision and in an adequate manner,” he said. 10

"Desilting of Hebbal Lake took place two years ago with an investment of Rs 2.7 crore. Yet three-fourths of the lake is covered with weeds, grass, and water hyacinth," said LDA CEO B K Singh. This development will not only increase the recreation options for the people but also encourage eco-tourism, support Lake bio-diversity, recharge ground water and help us maintain eco-balance, Singh added. The development is expected to take a year. The entry fee for visitors will be Rs 20 and be increased to Rs 40 in the last 3 years of the contract. This massive project to develop these lakes may bring back the aquatic sanctity to urban Bangalore. 5

________________________________________________________________________

10. “Waiting for restoration of its pristine glory”, The New Indian Express, 17 -05-2007, http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IE120070517001429

Restoration:

Source: http://www.daijiworld.com/images1/viju_0301_trs-4.jpg

Restoration of the Lake was sponsored by East India Hotels, which owns a chain of Oberoi hotels, on behalf of the Lake Development Authority. 4

It was restored under the Indo- Norwegian style. The main objectives of the programme were to restore the depleting ground water table, diverting sewage from lakes to treat waste water as an alternative source of water, create a habitat for aquatic and migratory birds, other animals and plants; and to improve sanitation and health conditions of the people living close to the lake. To make sure the lake remains clean, recreational facilities for water sports are provided.3

More than Rs. 2 crore was spent on the restoration of the lake. 8

Work done:

It underwent a major face lift at an investment of about 16.75 crore at an expression of interest policy of the lake development authority. The development of the 150 crore lake was undertaken by the East India Hotels of the Oberoi chain of hotels for 15 years and it includes a children park, medical care centre, arch bridges, boating jetty and a handicraft and curio gift centre. 5

Work done in 1993 at the initiative of Thoreau foundation and Madhyam international association, voluntary bodies, a master plan was evolved. The government of India set up a trust named Hebbal lake park association (helpa) to oversee the developmental work at the lake. the government of Karnataka, the Bangalore water supply and sewage board, the forest department, several industries and organizations came forward to assist helpa execute the master plan with an initial cost of around Rs 2 crore. Moreover, the Norwegian government

has contributed around Rs. 200 lakh as aid towards rehabilitation work for the lake. Desilting had been done and work on creating an area for wet planting (plants that help retain and purify water) has also been done. Landscaping work was also done. 9

1. To preserve the lake as a bird sanctuary, 4 islands have been created in the middle of the tank. Plants are also grown so that the birds can rest. Fish breeding has been taken up and an eco- friendly ambiance is created for the public. Trees have been grown all around which provides “lung space” for the people in the area which can be used for cultural and aesthetic activities.

Status: Helpa has grand plans. They propose to have a children's park, granite paving and

seats, parking facilities, irrigation facilities for plants, gazebos on the island at the centre of the lake, a donor's pavilion with names of contributors, one or two bridges across the storm water drains entering the lake. Wheelchairs for the disabled and elderly, first aid, security facilities, a library and museum are in the offing. The quality of water has improved a lot and the changes are visible from the main road itself. However, with no further funds for landscaping, work on that front has stopped. The jogging track is not fully functional. Those working on this project say they want more funds. A corpus is being created to sustain developmental work. Nearly Rs. one crore is required and it has proved to be a struggle to collect funds. Private industries and enterprises and the MPs fund will be tapped in the future. 10

Lalbagh Lake

A scene of winter morning at Lalbagh Lake in Bangalore on January 20, 2007, The Hindu

By V.Sreenivasa Murthy

Source: http://www.thehinduimages.com/hindu/photoDetail.do?photoId=11082511

History: The Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bangalore is of royal origin and was started initially as a private garden in an area of 40 acres by Hyder Ali, one of the most famous rulers of old Mysore in 1760. Initially designed in Mughal style, on the model of an extensive garden at Sira in Tumkur near Bangalore, this garden was further developed by Hyder Ali’s son Tipu Sultan and subsequently by the British and Indian doyens of horticulture by extension of area and addition of a number of plant species. Of them, Major Waugh, Dr. Wallich, William Munroe, Sir Mark Cubbon, Dr. Cleghorn, William New, A. Blck, John Cameron, Krumbeigal, Rao Bahadur H.C. Javaraya, K. Nanjappa and Dr. M.H. Marigowda, as the Superintendents of the garden, have made noteworthy contributions to the development of Lalbagh. Lalbagh is currently under the aegis of the Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka. The Directorate is housed amidst the splendid environs of the botanical garden. Lalbagh was given the status of a Government Botanical Garden in 1856, and since then, it has been an internationally renowned centre for scientific study of plants and botanical artwork and also conservation of plants. Formal and informal styles dominate the garden in perfect harmony, which is a testimony to the beauty of nature. Today, the garden is a lush green paradise with an area of 240 acres in the heart of the city. Lalbagh is well protected with stone walls as enclosures and it has four approach gates. 11

 Activities:  It is a jogger’s paradise. Lalbagh is one of the popular attractions for tourists in Bangalore. On an average, Lalbagh received 8,000 tourists on weekdays while the number would reach around 30,000 on weekends and holidays. Biannual flower shows are organized every year in January and August on the occasion of the Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations respectively. 11

________________________________________________________________________

11. http://www.horticulture.kar.nic.in/lalbagh.htm

Location: Lalbagh Botanical Garden is located in the heart of the city, about 4 km from the State Legislature – the Vidhana Soudha. Most parts of the garden is surrounded by different blocks of the beautiful residential layout – Jayanagar. The city buses plying to

Jayanagar and localities beyond Jayanagar stop at one or other approach gates of Lalbagh. The garden is accessible through four gates. Vehicles are allowed only through the East gate towards the Double Road. There is ample parking space on entering through this gate. Vehicular movement inside the garden is restricted. Access to the Directorate of Horticulture and related offices is through the main gate. HOPCOMS, MHS and BNCS offices are easily accessible through the Double Road gate. 11

Problems:  

    Immunology specialist and environmental activist, Dr. P. Anand was upset due to the absolute disregard of the horticulture department which manages Lalbagh towards fast drying and highly polluted lake in the garden.

 Another view is that they don’t seem to care about the condition of the lake.The sewage from Jayanagar 2 block is dumped into the lake through the culvert. The BWSSB erected about 2 years ago.

 The Lake in Lalbagh has beautiful lilies and geese that weighed about in the water.

 The Lake is polluted by bottles, plastic covers, flower garlands and idols. The lake is also infested with hyacinth and sewage as a result of which the lake is slowly drying up. First the sewage enters the lake which causes the alkaline content in the water to rise. This encourages the growth of hyacinth .This hyacinth results in quick evaporation of water.

 Since the whole clean up would take 2 crores the horticulture department is of opinion that the BWSSB is putting it off. But BWSSB is putting it off saying its only rain water.

 It is the only botanical garden in India to have a natural water body. The apart from the aesthetic loss the ecological balance of the area has also been disturbed as water from the lake is used for the surrounding flora. The increased alkaline content along with the other harmful toxins could well endanger the whole garden. 12

   Take the case of Dasarahalli lake, where the dissolved oxygen (DO) level is less

than 0.3 mg/lt due to industrial effluents from the Peenya industrial area and from nearby residences. The situation is worse at Lalbagh lake, where besides being polluted due to sewage leakages, major portion of the lake is occupied by weeds and the DO level is a mere 1mg/lt. 13

12. “BWSSB, Horticulture Dept Sully Lake” by Bhumika Anand, Times of India, 04-06-2001

13. “90 Percent of City’s Lakes Drying”, by SeethaLakshmi

CLEANING OPERATION: Dead fish being removed from the Lalbagh tank. Photo: K. Gopinathan

source: http://www.hindu.com/2007/05/17/stories/2007051718800400.htm

 Several dead fish were floating at the Lalbagh tank on Wednesday. Joggers were seen covering their noses unable to bear the stench.

 A senior official at the Lalbagh Botanical Garden said that that was not an unusual phenomenon. "This happens after the first few rains in summer. There are two inlets in the tank connected to storm water drains. After the rain, the water brings with it waste from the storm water drain. This results in an increase in the carbon levels and decrease in the oxygen levels in the water because of which fish near the inlet die."

 The official said that experts from the Department of Fisheries had been invited to look into the issue. "The experts have studied the case and even submitted a report. They have concluded that the fish kill is because of the decrease in oxygen levels in the water," he added.

 S. Venkatesh Shekhar, Regional Officer, Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, said that the board regularly monitored the tank. "We collect samples from the tank once a month and analyse them. The fish kill is not new. It is because of the entry of `dirty water' from the inlets." Mr. Shekhar said the officials of Lalbagh could not block the inlet as it would cause flooding in other areas. "However, the board had submitted a show-cause notice to Lalbagh, even though this is a common phenomenon that is noticed after the first few rains," he said.

 The Lalbagh officials have now covered the two inlets with mesh so that the entry of waste, including plastic and bottles, is restricted. "We are continuously taking steps to ensure that the tank is clean. However, such incidents cannot be avoided," the Lalbagh official added.14

14. “Fish Kill in Lalbagh again”, The Hindu, 17-05-2007

      Recently, the lake throwing more than 50-60 dead fish on a daily basis- the cause being attributed to an increase in the water’s pollution level.The rise in the

pollution was due to the sewage tunnel that was linked directly to the lake coming from Ashoka Pillar area, Jayanagar. During rainy season, the slurry and sewage from residential areas flow into the lake, thereby polluting it. The deputy director of Horticulture Jagadish had said that the death of fish due to torrential rains was common as the water gets contaminated by oil and other chemicals from the roads nearby.15

Work done: Angling work was done in the lake to commemorate 150 years of its existence.Garden Environs, installation of a 1.5 MLD capacity fully automated water reclamation plant that provides irrigation system (Central Control System, Sprinklers, Piping Network, Power saving features etc) for the entire garden. BDA was to start beautification works in the historical Lalbagh Gardens. The project included re-laying of glasses at the Glass House, rejuvenation of the Lalbagh Lake, improvisations to bandstand, joggers track and fountains at a total outlay of Rs 10 crores. After revamping, BDA would hand over the gardens to the Horticulture Department. 16

 Restoration:

A net is installed in Lalbagh to save fishes from the outlet, where the extra water of the Lalbagh Lake is

drained out, in Bangalore on October 25, 2005. The Hindu, by K.Bhagya Prakash

source: http://www.thehinduimages.com/hindu/photoDetail.do?photoId=5907598

Another reason for lake degradation is the appalling lack of cleanliness. If the underground drainage system is not in place in localities around the lake, the sewage can get into storm water drainpipes and through them, reach the water bodies. The LDA planned to tackle the problem by setting up treatment plants near the lakes, as it is not always possible to divert the sewage away from the lake. A tertiary plant has already been commissioned for Lalbagh.17

________________________________________________________________________15. “Lalbagh: Graveyard of aquatic life”, Vijay Times, 21-05-2007

16. http://www.blonnet.com/2003/07/23/stories/2003072300491700.htm

17. “City Lakes Continue to Dry up Despite good rains”, Indian Express, 07-02-2005

Madivala lake

History: The Madivala Lake was built by the Cholas nearly 300 years ago. It is said to have been built overnight. it got its name (which means washermen) because the lake used to be primarily used by the washermen population that lived around it. Still the water was supposed to have been so clean that people would travel several miles to take drinking water from it. 18

Location: It is located in the 29th main, tank show road, II stage, BTM layout. 18

Size: 114.16 hectare. Total wetland area 24.74 acre. 18

Department: Karnataka forest department. One of the biggest of its kind in the city, the fresh water lake is surrounded by Madivala, Rupena Agrahara, Kodichikanahalli and Bilekahalli. 18

Problems:

Source: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/02/14/stories/2007021406920500.htm

Most parts of the lake are covered with weeds. With chemical waste being dumped into the lake by neighbouring industrial units every day, the water has turned acidic.

Residents complain that even sewage from neighbouring slums is let into it. The lake which used to be filled with fish at one time now does not have too many species left. Even those that exist are not fit for consumption.

An island that was created in the middle of the lake is not being maintained. 19

________________________________________________________________________

18. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1240091955.cms19. “Fragmented Move Casts Shadow Over Tank” by Paawana Poonacha, Times of India, 24-01-2001

The Someshwara slum adjacent to the lake adds to the problems. "Slum dwellers are responsible for human waste contaminating the water," says K. R. Nanjunda Reddy, a retired teacher and a nearby resident.

None of the facilities that are supposed to be available can be used. Officials claim it is because developmental work is in progress.

Environmental studies conducted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) southern zonal office here noted that the pollution level in Madivala Lake is so high that it is as good as 'dead'.

Due to high pollution-level, the lake is filled with algae, which makes it difficult for any other organism to grow, in a condition known as eutrophication or, simply lake death.

The thick layer of sludge at the bottom of this lake has high levels of toxic heavy metals, the study states.

As the sludge is also contaminated, checking the sources of pollution alone cannot save these lakes. "The entire lake water should be pumped out and sludge should be removed," said a CPCB scientist.

CPCB also recommends a ban on immersion of idols in lakes during the Ganesha festival.

The algae bloom in the lakes is caused by excess nitrogen and phosphate, which come from the sewage and traces of garbage and other organic matter that reach the lakes.

The heavy metals come from effluents and from paint used in the idols immersed.

"Ganesha festival idols, which are usually immersed in the lake, are the only source of pollution that occurs, that too only once a year," the study notes. The lake bottom sludge traces of heavy metals.

The Madivala Lake, maintained by the State Forest Department, receives sewage and storm water from surrounding localities.

The study showed that the level of dissolved oxygen, an important criterion that marks the ecological health of a water source varies in Madivala Lake from a maximum of 18.5 mg per litre (mg/l) to 0.1 mg/l. This variations shows that the lake has got as dirty as it can get.

The science behind the oxygen level variation is that during daytime, the algae thriving on pollutants release excess oxygen into water, but suck it all up by night, leaving little for other organisms to breathe.

In effect, the water is no where fit for fishing. At a dismal 0.1 mg/l it will be lucky to find some fish there.

According to CPCB criteria, dissolved-oxygen level should be at least 4 mg/l to make the water fit for fishing or for water supply after conventional treatment.

For outdoor bathing, the level should be at least 5 mg/l. The sludge at the bottom of Madivala Lake contains high concentrations

of toxic heavy metals including lead and chromium. 19

Madivala Lake is also facing problems of privatization. 19

The Forest Department's dead line for rejuvenation and restoration on the Madivala Tank against January 2001 is floundering.

With dirt and storm water drains blocked by weeds and construction activity, people in the area live in the threat of disease amidst a canal overflowing with sewage.

Mr.Nagaraj president of sites, flats and house owner's association of lakes city said the regional plan had no mention of sewage water canal restricting itself to the re-design of the storm water drain.

The answer given by the Chief Conservator of Forests B.Chengappa said it was temporary and once the treatment plant was operational, the sewage channel would be diverted into it and the crisis resolved. 19

Pollution: Environmental studies conducted by CPCB southern zonal office in Bangalore noted the pollution level in Madivala Lake is so high that it is as good as dead.

Due to high pollution level the lake is filled with algae which make it difficult for any other organism to grow, in a condition know as eutrophication or lake death. The thick lawyer of sludge at the bottom of this lake has high levels of toxic heavy metals. As the sludge is also contaminated, checking the sources of pollution alone cannot save this lake.A CPCB scientist said that the entire lake water should be pumped out and the sludge should be removed.

The Madivala Lake maintained by the State Forest Department receives sewage and storm water from surrounding localities.

The studies showed that the level of dissolved oxygen, an important criterion that marked the ecological health of a water source varies in Madivala Lake from a maximum of 18.5 mg/l to 0.1 mg/l.

This variation shows that the lake has got as dirty as it can get. The science behind the oxygen level variation is that during day time, the

algae thriving on pollutants release excess oxygen into water but suck it all up by night leaving little for other organisms to breath. In effect the water is nowhere fit for fishing.

At a dismal 0.1 mg/l it will be lucky to find some fish according to CPCB criteria, dissolved oxygen should be at least 4 mg/l to make the water fit for fishing or for water supply after conventional treatment.

For outdoor bathing the level should be at least 5 mg/l. The sludge of the bottom the Madivala Lake contains high concentrations of toxic heavy metals including lead and chromium. 20

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

20. “Studies Finally Declare Ulsoor and Madivala Lakes Dead”, Indian Express, 17-02-2001

Encroachments: Several encroachments had come up around Madivala Lake, according to a re-survey undertaken by several government agencies at the request of the BMTF.

7. The survey was taken up by the Forest Department, the Revenue Department and the Department of land Survey from January 2000.

8. While encroachments were removed by the BMTF, several hutments, illegal structures and a slum still dot the lake's surroundings. The survey has indicated encroachments in the four places surrounded by the lake, i.e., Madivala, Rupena Agrahara, Kodichikanahalli and Bilekahalli, while a big slum has come up on one side of the lake, orchards and farm yards have sprung on the tank bed. Although most of the illegal farm lands and orchards have been reclaimed, the slum still exists as do a few structures built on the lake bed. Encroachments have been identified on 5 acres in the lake.A report on the present status of the lake and the encroachments on its tank bed had been sent to the state government. MTF had planned to take up renovation of the Madivala Lake under an Indo-Norwegian aid programme.

9. When the Forest Department took up work to restore the lake to its original glory, it came across several encroachments. The Forest Department then wrote to the BMTF seeking its assistance in clearing the encroachments. By then BMTF had demolished 22 illegal structures, including a building put up by an elected representative on the tank bed. Besides, more than 12 acres of Madivala tank bed, which had been illegally betaken over by some persons for cultivation, have been recovered.When there was a hue and cry over the reclamation drive launched by the BMTF, it decided to ask for a re-survey of the lake.

10. Mr.Munikrishna, the inspector-general of BMTF, held several meetings with the officials of the forest departments, revenue department and department of land survey and settlement. At these meetings it was resolved to physically demarcate the boundaries of the Madivala Lake and also pin point the encroachments. The joint survey by Forest, Revenue and land survey and settlement departments, which began on January 11th reveled that 166 acres and 39 guntas of lake came under Madivala, 6 acres and 10 guntas of land in Rupena Agrahara, 80 acres and 9 guntas in Kodichikanahalli and 21 acres and 35 guntas in Bilakahalli. In all, five acres and 1.75 guntas, of the tank bed was found to have been encroached upon. While 5 guntas had been encroached upon in Bilakahalli, 1 acre and 5 guntas had been encroached upon in Kodichikanahalli, 22 guntas in Rupena Agrahara and the rest n Madivala side.

11. Bommanahalli city municipal council had provided civic amenities such as power, water and roads to more than 100 huts of the slum that had come up illegally on the rank bed. Mr.Munnikrishna, said that civic amenities had been provided to slum dwellers after they had moved to the High Court against eviction. A majority of hutments in the slums came up decades ago. He had sent the report on Madivala Lake to the government, and the BMTF was waiting for orders before taking any action.21

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

21. “Madivala lake surrounded by encroachments” by B.S.Ramesh, The Hindu, 28-06-2000

Work done: Some of the weeds have been cleared. Restoration work under the Indo-Norwegian style.

Environmental programme is underway which is working towards diversion and treatment of sewage to prevent contamination of underground aquifers in the area.

The programme also aims at better utilization of the Madivala lake for educative and research purposes.

But only a small part of the programme objectives have been achieved till now. Area Corporator, Vasantha Devdas claims to have sanctioned 65 street lights around the lake although it does not come under her supervision.Some time back the government undertook a clean-up operation. The lake has also been fenced. 10 to 15 boats have been placed here for recreation. 22

Status: In spite of several initiatives to clean up and beautify the lake, weeds cover half of it, the fish are inedible, the stench of sewage pervades the air and the area around it is badly maintained. Moreover, none of the facilities are in working order. 22

Activities: Although residents and tourists cannot use the facilities, the Madivala Lake has tremendous potential as a tourist attraction. Boating and visiting the island is an interesting activity.

There is a children's playground, a rose garden and a nursery for plants. Walkers and joggers from the area visit the lake regularly.

It has a big potential as a scenic relief in the middle of the congested urbanscape.

But sadly it's more of an eyesore now. Several rare species of birds visit the island and the nursery has some good plants.

But till the time the condition of the lake is improved, birdwatchers and joggers cannot expect any solace here. 22

22. Express News Service, Bangalore, 16-02- 2001

Sankey tank

History: The Sankey Lake is a 500 year old, perennial water body. It is a manmade lake or tank. It was constructed by Col. Sankey during the latter half of the 19th Century to meet the water supply demands of Bangalore. Miller's Tank was a huge area of three lakes. Today it accommodates hospitals and IT companies. The lakes were connected to Sankey Tank. When Sankey overflowed, water used to flow into Miller's tanks .Presently the tank has a well maintained park and a city corporation swimming pool to the south of the tank, and a forest department nursery towards the north of the tank. It was identified as one of the 5 lakes in Bangalore for immersion of Ganesha idols in 2001 by the B.M.P.23 The main characteristics of the tank are its serenity, the placid clean sheets of water surrounded by woods, an opportunity to enjoy quiet dawns and sunsets, hear birds and watch fishes flip, and the ambience to sit on the banks and reflect .24 Sankey Lake is the only wetland which has withstood the changes in the growth of Bangalore even though it is located in the heart of the city.

Statistics: (Lat.:13° 00'24" - 13° 00'41"N; Long.:77° 33'53" - 77° 34'5"E; altitude: 921 m MSL, maximum water spread area 12 ha, maximum depth 23 ft, average depth 9 ft), Sankey Lake is among the few lakes in the northern part of the city with continuous drains. It is also the main source of ground water to this part of Bangalore. It harbors a rich biodiversity which includes birds, fishes, aquatic plants and microbes. The presence of a biotically diverse and beautiful botanical garden and a forest nursery adjacent to the lake increases the ecological value. 25

Location: The 'Sankey Lake,' is situated in the heart of Bangalore City. It is sandwiched between Malleswaram and Sadashivnagar. 25

Activities:

The Bangalore Mahangara Palike has made lots of changes and this lake is now transformed into a usable park. Earlier, the lake offered only a visual break to the passer by, but now with all the upgrades, the transformed park is a walker's/jogger's paradise. All along the lake, are benches facing the lake. Both sides of the paved path are well landscaped.

The lake also has a couple of small islands. Boating has been stopped since about a year, when the residents complained about the activity disturbing the birds and the fish of the lake. There are also enough parking spaces at both the gates.

Tarsha Water Sports, the first Indian company to offer adventure water sporting facilities, is planned to enter Bangalore in a big way. Karnataka state tourism development corporation has come forward to offer Sankey tank and Ulsoor lake for this purpose.26

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

23. “Don’t pollute the lakes during Ganesha” by Kanak Hirani, Times of India, 08-08- 200124. “Damage a Tank; Call it Beautification” by Devaki Jain, Deccan Herald, 02-03-2003 25. http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/water/paper/waterpollution/comparison.html26. “KSTDC Offers Sankey Tank, Ulsoor Lake for Water Sports” by ENS Economic Bureau, Indian express, 13-11- 2000.

Authority In-charge: The lake is maintained by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) which usually offers boating facilities in the lake.

Problems:

Since the beginning of 1982, drainage of industrial effluent and other domestic sewage into the lake has been stopped and the lake is expected to be free from noticeable pollution. The lake faces problems of algal bloom and heavy metals. The algal bloom in the lake is caused by excess nitrogen and phosphate, which come from the sewage and traces of garbage and other organic matter that reach the lakes. The lake bottom sludge traces of heavy metals, the heavy metals come from effluents and from paint used in the idols immersed. Ganesha festival idols, which are usually immersed in the lake, are the only source of pollution that occurs, that too once a year.

CPCB scientists have studied the Sankey Tank as well, and found it is only 'moderately polluted', as it receives only storm water and no effluents. CPCB also recommended a ban on immersion of idols in lakes during the Ganesha festival.

A recent study done by the Indian Institute of Science reveals the following about the status of Sankey Tank. 27

SUMMARY OF THE RESULTS

Physical ParametersThe water colour through out the study period was noticed to be clear with non-objectionable odour. The temperature of the water body ranged from 21° C to 30 °C during summer. The water clarity indicated by low turbidity values ranged from 6 - 14 NTU and high transparency over 25 cms. 28

________________________________________________________________________

27. “Sankey tank: Fairly clean” by Kanak Hirani , The Times of India, 29-05-2001, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1259704639.cms28. “Have we really restored our lakes?” by Sujata S.R., New Sunday Express 13 -03- 2005

Chemical Parameters

The pH of the water samples during the entire study period was mostly neutral at all points ranging from 7.2 - 8.4.

1. The Electrical Conductivity of water samples at center and outlet were 0.49 (± 0.05) and 0.55 (± 0.29) ms/cm. The higher values were noted during Apr'97 at outlet mainly from the nursery side towards outlet.

2. The water samples showed lower Solids during the study period. The Total Solids ranged from 260 - 446 mg/L towards inlet, 264 - 398 mg/L towards center and 276 - 408 mg/L at the outlet.

3. Lower Dissolved Solids of 228 (± 47.75), 234.18 (±30.97), 247.2 (±42.8) mg/L were found at inlet, center and outlet respectively. Similarly low values Suspended Solids at all sample points indicated that the tank has less suspended particles and pollution load.

4. The dissolved salts of carbonate and bicarbonates of divalent cat ions (such as Calcium and Magnesium) cause the hardness in water. Relatively higher values at about 150mg/L of total hardness were found at inlet, which may be due to runoff from the nonpoint source or the geology, (which use hardness inducing substances such as lime).

5. The Dissolved Oxygen of the lake is at 6.6±0.9 mg/L, 6.7±0.9 mg/L and 6.6±1.0 mg/L at inlet, center and outlet of the tank respectively.

6. The DO at all sample points of the lake showed nearly same values all through the study period.

7. Lower values of Biological Oxygen Demand ranging from 1.7 - 7.0 mg/L were noticed at all points in the lake, which clearly showed low degree of pollution. Low values of Chemical Oxygen Demand ranging from 15-105mg/L at inlet, 14-94 mg/L and 12-112 mg/L at inlet, center and outlet respectively clearly shows the water in this lake is relatively less polluted.

8. Calcium values varied from 31.0 - 118.0 mg/L at various points measured in the tank.

9. Regulars to Sankey tank feel there has been a lot of change in the bird seen: shoreline birds such as Sandpipers ,ibises , Stilts have become rarer due to walling up of the bund around Sankey tank.28

There were concerns about the water draining out which could have been avoided as the rainfall pattern in the state is an important criteria .if there are two or three years of low rainfall in Karnataka or in the Bangalore area , the water level of the tank usually falls to 6-10 feet, almost emptying it Thus it is dangerous to drain the tank in the dry season that is being followed now. It is crucial for water to be harvested when there are rains – to keep the water table. 29

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

29. “BCC to Sankey’s Rescue after Firm Strongarms Locals”, Indian express 14-07- 2004 Footpaths have been created in many lakes all over the world for people who

would wish to walk alongside the lake but the situation is different in case of Sankey tank. The tank’s circumference is relatively small , walking on twisting, precarious footpaths, reeling around water- which might be reduced to a saucer, due to the desire to protect the footpath from the water, rather than protect the

water from getting dehydrated- could expose the space of the tank to accidents and even crimes in the night as policing the walks which are precariously constructed would be difficult.29

Residents of Malleshwaram and other nearby areas were against the construction of a residential complex on the periphery of Sankey Tank and had launched an agitation under Malleshwaram Swabhimana initiative and Grahak Shakti to save the aquifer.The Bangalore City Corporation had, by that time recently rejuvenated the tank at the cost of 3.5 crore. If the proposed project were to have come through, it would have lead to severe environmental degradation. Large number of trees had been chopped without obtaining permission from the authorities for taking up construction work. The project would have delivered a severe blow to the well being of the tank since rain water , its only source, would have been blocked.29

A study done about fish mortality in Bangalore lakes in 1996 revealed the following.

Long-term studies on hydrology and microbial ecology, conducted during the last decade, have indicated that Sankey Lake has high potentiality for development of inland fisheries practices.

The average annual photosynthetic profile suggests the significance of the heterotrophic food chain in sustaining the higher Trophic levels.

With a mean fish production of 859 metric tonnes/year, the present fish production efficiency works out to 0.43 per cent.

Since the lake is still mesotrophic and is amenable to management measures, a higher target fish production appears quite feasible.

Sankey Lake was studied for its hydro biological characteristics by many agencies like the Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bangalore University, University of Agricultural Sciences and the Indian Institute of Science

This lake forms an ideal breeding ground for commercially important fishes like Etroplus suratensis, Murrels (Channa marulius), Catfishes (Heteropneustes fossilis), small palaemonid prawns and the commercial variety, Macrobrachium malcolmsonii. This lake harbours Tilapia along with many other smaller fishes. In the past, the lake was stocked at times with small numbers of freshwater prawns. 30

_______________________________________________________________________

30. Fish Mortality in Bangalore Lakes, India, December 1996, Issue 6Ranjeev Benjamin , Kar Devashish, A.V. Nagarathna, B.K. Chakrapani, T.V.Ramachandra Electronic Green Journal, http://egj.lib.uidaho.edu/egj06/ramachandra.html

The results were satisfactory, thus providing evidence of its potential for freshwater prawn culture as well.As a result of human activity over the years; accumulations of silt and clay have led to changes in the pattern of sediment-water exchange.

Dissolved oxygen is not a limiting factor and thus the water has promoted the growth of 21 species of phytoplankton. Although, the human activity has resulted

in the enrichment of nutrients in the sediment, their level in water still remains low due to poor exchange of nutrients in the sediment.

Comparison of plankton species made from three different studies during 1981-84, 1982 and 1989 indicated that both the phyto and zoo plankton species richness has been increasing over the years.

In the 1989 survey, though Microcystis was observed to be dominant among the phytoplankton species, an increased number of Myxophyceae forms are considered ecologically significant. A total number of 27 phytoplankton and 28 zooplankton species have been recorded from this lake.

The 1989 survey covering 97 sites listed 58 plankton and 55 zooplankton species for the Bangalore area. This means that nearly half the plankton species richness of Bangalore is found in this lake which is right in the heart of urban Bangalore.

From the point of view of the lake waters, the progression in plankton species richness from 1981 to 1989 probably indicates an improving situ annual average photosynthetic value ranging from 0.81-1.42% and has a mean fish production level of 36.57 gm-2.

The important role of Sankey Lake needs to be highlighted, which has been maintaining the ground water level in the surrounding areas that includes Malleswaram, Palace Orchards, Rajamahal Vilas, Vyalikaval, Palace Gutthalli and Yeshwantpur.

Careful observation of the lake morphology, hydrodynamics and sedimentation, show that the water from Sankey Lake that seeps through the soil is not lost but recharges the natural underground reservoir which in turn supplies water to wells and bore wells in all the areas mentioned . This lake has great fish potential, supports human environmental needs and contributes to climatic stability. Thus the multiple contribution of the Sankey Lake to the city's economy through ground water recharge and the ecological role of the tanks need to be recognized.

Fish mortality occurred on quite a large scale during June - July 1995These studies reveal that the fish-kill in Sankey Lake was due to a sudden and considerable fall in dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in some locations caused by sewage let into the lake resulting in asphyxiation. It was not due to any kind of infection because none of the fishes appeared to show any symptom of disease. 30

Work done:

A new design that the BMP had drawn up for the tank beautification, a separate walled tank of water was being created for the Ganesha immersion. This was a safe arrangement that would limit the contamination and prevent the immersion of debris from coming onto the tank.

There were suggestions in the designs to construct a footpath around the tank, build a musical fountain, and create an artificial island and to bring up some other features around the tank.

One view is that the kind of noise and activity that would be created around the tank would only distract the visitors of the tank.24

Over Rs. 5 crores spent on the restoration of the picturesque Sankey Tank by the BMP had been rendered waste.

With the tank filled to the brim due to the rains, the immersion pond, the boating jetty, the obsequies pond, the entire landscaping, the iron railings and even the pathway surrounding the lake had submerged.

The retaining wall of the tank, portions of which had recently collapsed because of alleged substandard construction, was also submerged on the Sadashivnagar side of the tank.

As the whole tank bed had become slushy after water overflowed onto it, the tank area had remained closed for public.

While concerned citizens and residents of the nearby Vyalikaval, Kodandramapuram and Malleswaram areas blame the BMP for this, the authorities, including the Mayor, R. Narayanaswamy, and the Mahanagara Palike Commissioner, K. Jothiramalingam, had not bothered to visit the tank.

"Though the retaining wall collapsed because of substandard material used in the construction, the BMP officials said the wall fell after a tractor transporting construction material to the other side of the tank hit the wall.

To increase the water level in the tank from 928.8 metres to 929.8 metres, the BMP had started re-doing the entire 1,700-metre pathway and the tank bund in May.

The idea was to widen the earlier tank bund by 2.5 metres and a construct a new retaining wall on the embankment by August; all at a cost of Rs. 69 lakhs.

But rain delayed work and then the wall collapsed.31

___________________________________________________________________31. “Sankey tank overflows”, by Afshan Yasmeen , The Hindu, 14-10-2005

Ulsoor Lake

Source: http://kstdc.nic.in/pix/ulsoor.jpg

Location: It is located near MEG, Ulsoor. 32

History: Ulsoor Lake is said to date back to the time of Kempe Gowda I and II in the 16th century. Two springs exist at the bottom of the lake, but they are now covered with heavy silt. It was constructed by Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring, the then commissioner of Bangalore. In its heyday, the lake was a big tourist spot and a vital lung space. Boating and MEG Regatta events took place on its tranquil, cool waters. The mini islands dotting the lake were used for film shootings and cultural events. Amid the trees lining the lake, joggers and walkers would sweat it out in the mornings and hawkers would peddle their wares on balmy summer evenings. It was once a source of drinking water to many villages. 32

Statistics: It has a radius of about 3km. Size: 50 hectares. It has a capacity to hold 0.25 million cubic metres of water. 32

Department: Bangalore City Corporation. 32

Activities:Tarsha Water Sports, the first Indian company to offer adventure water sporting facilities, is planned to enter Bangalore in a big way. Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation has come forward to offer Sankey Tank and Ulsoor Lake for this purpose. It is a popular boating spot. Ulsoor Lake is occasionally used for shooting films. 33

32. “Will Ulsoor Lake’s ‘Dead Water’ Ever Spring to Life?” by Paawana Poonacha, Times of India, 02-05-200133. “KSTDC Offers Sankey Tank, Ulsoor Lake for Water Sports” by ENS Economic Bureau, Indian express, 13-11-2000Facilities: A parking facility was planned by the BMP in the lake's bund area to ease the traffic in and around the lake as the new parking lot can easily accommodate 600-800 vehicles. 32

Grievances: The Ulsoor Lake's citizens' Forum were against the above proposal as the bund area is clean and its the only lung space for morning walkers and joggers and that the vehicles emit carbon monoxide and other harmful pollutants which would pollute the lake and will and the garden. 34

Problems: The lake is due to be filled up in the monsoon of the year 2003 with pure rain

water. But the fresh rain water is expected to wash all the mess back into the lake. General N.S. Narahari of the Ulsoor Lake Restoration Committee traced the pathway that rain water would take before it enters Ulsoor Lake, first the catchment area of 11 sq km along Bangalore North and East, then along

pavements and roads into the maze of storm water drains, where the real filth is stocked.

● On the dried bed near the bridge at Aloysius School on Assaye Road, about 800 metres away from Ulsoor Lake, lies a small pile of harmful medical waste used rubber surgical gloves, disposable needles and cotton swabs.

● The storm water drain, up to a distance of 1 km before the lake, had been dried up with a cordon of around 200 sandbags. Near Buddha Vihar Road, residents throw household refuse into the storm water drain, while many others let out household sewage and sullage directly into it. Richards Town Residents' Town Welfare Association spokesperson Zafar Sait affirms that "several houses let their sewage into the drain. Many houses along the drain have encroached on public land."

● Slum dwellers and construction labourers, especially children, defecating on the edge of the storm water drain are a common sight. No one cleans up the mess, and rain water washes all this into Ulsoor Lake. Several slums and small houses have no sewage connections and are directly connected to the drain.

● Further upstream near the Mosque Road intersection, the drain is filled with plastic covers, bottles, tender coconut shells, thermocol and other refuse, not to mention caked sewage and sullage. Says BCC special commissioner I.S.N. Prasad: "Household sewage will be redirected into the underground drainage. We have silt traps to check the flow of solid waste, there is a 5-acre sedimentation tank where solid sediments will be collected and removed. To prevent sullying of the lake, the first flow of dirty rain water will be redirected into a diversion pipe." 35

______________________________________________________________________________________34. “BMP Plans Green Ride to Commercial Street” by Prathima Nandakumar, Deccan Herald, 10-01-200735. “Filth is Still Ulsoor Lake Waterloo” by Bansy Kalappa, TIMES NEWS NETWORK, 13-04-2003, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/43300014.cms

For as long as a Bangaloreans can remember, Ulsoor Lake has evoked images of a murky green, foul smelling, polluted, contaminated, hyacinth-infested water body, brimming with slime. Urbanization, pollution, poor management, unchecked effluent and sewage discharge have taken their toll on this once beautiful, serene lake. Over the years it has become an eyesore and a bane for residents living nearby. Its pollution levels are a cause of concern for Bangaloreans. Constant efforts have been made to restore the lake to its former glory, but attempts have been abortive. Ulsoor Lake is chock-a-block with water hyacinth and needs regular clearing up. It is silted to about 50 per cent of its actual depth and reports say that the quantity of silt on the lake bed is about five lakh metric tonne. The fishing contract was given to Fishing Society. Hundreds of fish were found in the lake falling pray to lack of oxygen in the water. A stock of 61,500 containing Grass Carp, Silver Carp and Catla, the major Indian Carp and Mrigal fish variety which were introduced in the lake by BMP in November 2003.

● The reason behind high mortality of fresh water fish in the lake was due to sudden and considerable fall in dissolved oxygen levels.

● And over crowding in the lake also resulted in asphyxiation.

● Increase in the aquatic weeds and algae has also contributed to this situation.36

Environmentalists claim there are several small dye manufacturing units in the vicinity, which discharge highly concentrated detergents and other chemicals into the lake. The BMP also issued a show- cause notice to the assistance Engineer in-charge of the Ulsoor Lake, Himachala. 37

Even a fortnight after KSPCB reported that the mass death of fish was due to discharge of pollutants like sewage water, the BMP has turned a blind eye. The civic body has neither tried to examine the reason for the death of fish nor has it sought any explanation from BWSSB. It was the BWSSB which implemented the work to divert sewage water from entering the lake at a cost of over Rs.1 crore.

The only initiative that the BMP took after the incident was spraying potassium permanganate and zeolite to enhance the oxygen level and absorb the pollutants in the lake. 38

Encroachments: The achkut has been totally destroyed for developing a housing colony by the Karnataka Housing Board. Nearly half the lake has been encroached for revenue sites between 1985 and 1991. 32

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36. “Hundreds of Fish Perish, Lie Afloat in Ulsoor Lake”, Deccan Herald, 27-01-2005 37. “Fish Deaths: BMP yet to Find Cause”, Deccan Herald, 28-01-200538. “BMP Smells Nothing Fishy in Ulsoor Lake” by P.M Raghunandan, Deccan Herald, 25-02-2005

Causes: Environmental studies conducted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) southern zonal office here note that pollution levels in Ulsoor and Madivala lakes are so high that they are as good as 'dead'.

● Due to high pollution-levels, the lakes are filled with algae, which make it difficult for any other organism to grow, in a condition known as eutrophication or, simply lake death. The thick layer of sludge at the bottom of these lakes has high levels of toxic heavy metals, the study states. As the sludge is also contaminated, checking the sources of pollution alone cannot save these lakes. "The entire lake water should be pumped out and sludge should be removed," said a CPCB scientist. CPCB also recommends a ban on immersion of idols in lakes during the Ganesha festival. The algal bloom in the lakes is caused by excess nitrogen and phosphate, which come from the sewage and traces of garbage and other

organic matter that reach the lakes. The heavy metals come from effluents and from paint used in the idols immersed.

● Depletion of dissolved oxygen(DO) to as low as 1.1mg/lt had lead to the death of a large number of fish as normal fish require at least 4mg/lt of DO for their survival. A senior official's initial assessment was that DO depletion must have occurred due to eutrophication. Eutrophication is a common occurrence in closed lake systems where waste discharge increases the phosphorous levels in the lake water. Phosphorous is a critical nutrient for growth of algae.

● Due to constant increase in phosphorous levels, algae concentration increases till the growth cannot be sustained by the available phosphorous. Then the algae “bloom” start to die, leading to decay. The decay of dead algae uses up the entire DO in the water which soon deprives the fish of the oxygen turning the water body into a dead lake. For maintaining the DO level there has to be huge discharge of waste containing phosphorous components. Recent wash water flush from the adjoining swimming pool containing huge quantities of chlorides is suspected to have caused chemical deterioration of oxygen levels in the lake.

● “Guppy” fish: BCC had released special specie of fish called Guppy to control the mosquito menace last year. This fish grows at low oxygen levels and thrives on the larvae of the mosquitoes. Member secretary to KSPCB K.S.Sai Babu suspects the excessive growth of guppy for DO depletion. However Chief Horticulture Officer BCC denies this. He maintained that BCC had not introduced guppy fish in the lake. 39

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39. “Fish in Ulsoor Lake Killed due to Depletion of Oxygen Levels”, Indian express, 28-01-2005

Another reason for the death of the fish was that the fish was not harvested from a long time. The BMP entered into a contract with the society for harvesting for year. The contract is valid but the society has not harvested fish for a long time.

Also, the BMP requested the Bangalore District Fisheries' Cooperative Society to harvest fish to reduce their density. 40

Extensive deforestation in the catchment area due to increased habitation, unlawful encroachment stretched up to the few slums through the years seem to be one of the causes of the havoc.

1. According to sources, the open stormwater drain originating from areas as far as Marathahalli (Airport Road) is one of the causes for the havoc.

2. Industrial effluents, debris, domestic garbage, including loads of plastic, sewage and sullage, are dumped into the drain. The underground sewage system runs parallel and at many places, under the bed of the stormwater drain. These spew out sewage- all along Kadugodanahalli, Devarajeevanahalli, Kavalbyrasandra- whenever there is a breakdown and bad maintenance.

3. Another main source of pollution is the number of sewage pipes running along the open drains connecting from Krishnarajapuram area. Environmentalist Suresh Heblikar had said that regular overflow of sewage due to heavy corrosion in the pipes resulted in perpetual mixing up of the sewage with stormwater drains.

4. Another source could be attributed to the slaughter house on Pottery Road. The blood stained water enters the lake via defective and clogged underground and surface drains. 32

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40. “Fish Kill in Ulsoor Lake Raises a Stink” by Govind D. Belgaumkar, The Hindu, 27-01-2005

Restoration:

Source: http://static.flickr.com/34/70371386_6eab2f5740.jpg

BBMP commissioner K Jairaj has instructed officers to clear garbage collected around Ulsoor Lake immediately. During his surprise visit to the lake Mr Jairaj took exception to piling up of municipal waste in the tank area.

● He instructed officers to ask the solid waste management contractors to clear the garbage in the next two days. The commissioner also asked the deputy conservator of forests to beautify the tank surroundings. He inspected re-modeling works of Challaghatta storm water drain and directed officers to complete works at a faster pace.

● Asked on municipal solid waste management, Mr. Jairaj said the Palike has written to the state government seeking 1,000 acres of land, (250 acres each in four zones) for the scientific disposal of the waste. “We are demanding land keeping the generation of municipal waste in Bangalore in the next few years in mind,” he said. 41

The BCC worked on improvising the lake by erecting grills on the periphery of the lake, a 2 km jogging track, garden benches and creating a green cover and trees were planted on either side of the joggers' track. Two contractors undertook this work for Rs.90.65 lakh and Rs.80.90 lakh respectively. 42

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41. “Clear municipal waste around Ulsoor lake:Jairaj”, Deccan Herald, 10-05-2007, http://www.deccanherald.com/Content/May102007/city.asp

42. “A New Improved Ulsoor Lake Soon” by Basavaraj Itnel, New Indian Express, 22-7-2005

A provisional time-bound programme was chalked out by the government- formed Ulsoor Lake Foundation (ULF) with Additional Chief Secretary A. Ravindra as the chairman to rejuvenate the lake.

The technical report estimates the cost to be Rs. 8-10 crores. The foundation proposes to relay the underground drainage system in certain places and upgrade them in few others. The BWSSB, BCC and the ULF are seeking ways to raise funds. The foundation estimated that the pollutants entering the lake, after restoration would be reduced by 75 to 80 percent. 32

Work done:

The Ulsoor Lake Park has been improved and is well maintained now. The joint cleanliness drive has breathed new life to the lake. Recently MEG soldiers put in a week's labour to clean up the lake. A technical committee of the Save Ulsoor Lake Foundation, along with the Technology Alumni Association (IIT Kharagpur), has prepared a report on restoration of the lake. The committee has suggested desilting of the entire lake and measures to prevent entry of sewage and pollutants into it. 43

The BMP constructed special 'sedimentation tanks' were built at points where rain water flows into the lake. The tank traps the silt which would otherwise enter the lake. Special immersion tanks were also created; idols and puja articles are to be immersed only there. The BMP also released 65,000 fish into the lake.44

Eighty five percent of the weeding water hyacinth out of the lake has been complete. Almost 4,000 army men from the Madras Engineering Group and the Centre nearby completed the operation. The weeds were dumped in the MEG land opposite to BDA Shopping Complex in Indira Nagar. 45

BBMP Commissioner, K.Jairaj, visited Ulsoor Lake and instructed the officials to take measures to prevent pollution of the lake and its surroundings and asked the garbage contractors to remove solid waste dumped on the north-east side of the lake. He also ordered the officials to clean up the drains in Challaghatta valley leading to Ulsoor Lake. 46

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43. “Ulsoor lake: Clogged lung space” by Vinita G Singh, The Times of India,29-05-2001, http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/cms.dll/articleshow?catkey=-2128833038&art_id=1131804996&sType=1

44. “Lakes get a New Lease of Life”, The Hindu, 26-06-200445. “Ulsoor Lake restakes its Claim as City Landmark”, Indian express, 21-05-200146. “The Clean up Act”, Indian express, 10-05-2007

The Foundation will soon take up restoration work for the lake at a cost of Rs 10 crores. Work is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

● The BWSSB has been asked to identify points where sewage enters the lake, and estimate the cost of diverting it. The underground drainage system needs to be relaid in some places. The BWSSB has estimated that it will cost Rs 2.07 crore to revamp the entire system. Work has commenced in high priority areas and depending on the availability of funds, they hope to complete the entire work by the end of this year.

● The lake is fed by storm water drains which often carry sewage in it. Desilting the lake should be done to restore it to its former glory.

● Apart from this, a water purifying system has to be provided to clean the water that enters the lake. Once the work is completed, entry of pollutants to the lake will be reduced by about 75 to 80 per cent. Remarks.

● To add character to the landscape a statue of Swami Vivekananda is yet to be installed on one of the islands in the lake. 44

Varthur Lake History: Varthur Lake is an artificial lake. This lake has played an important role in maintaining water resources for irrigation since its construction during the Ganga Empire over 1,000 years ago (Karnataka State Gazetteer, 1990). Over the centuries, it has developed into a complex ecosystem that provides habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including resident and migratory waterfowl. The lake also endows the local community with a pleasant microclimate and considerable aesthetic appeal. 47

 Statistics: The largest town in the immediate area is Varthur, which had a population of 5,431 as per 1981 census. 47  Location: It is located in the Bangalore South taluk of the Bangalore District in Karnataka near Whitefield. The lake is surrounded by small farms that grow rice, ragi, coconut, flowers, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Several smaller villages are also located near the periphery of the lake. 47

 Problems:

The lake may not count among the city's most polluted lakes. But according to the KSPCB, the BOD or the bio-chemical oxygen in demand does exceed the accepted limit of 5 when the water remains stagnant. Farmers and villagers who live in Varthur had washed vegetables in the lake for many years. Said Baula, a vegetable seller who hails from Varthur, "We wash carrots, tomatoes and beetroot in this lake. We have done this for years. The water is okay, nothing happens." Picking up a tomato covered with flies, Baula tried to emphasize his point, and "The tomatoes and carrots are already dirty. We make them clean by washing them in the lake". But some sellers, like Chinnamma, shook their head vehemently at the suggestion that their vegetables were washed in Varthur Lake. "I wash the vegetables in Hoskote. The Varthur Lake is so dirty, how can I wash my vegetables there?" she asked. 48

Rapid development and population expansion, both within Bangalore and in the surrounding towns and villages, have taken a heavy toll on many of the tanks in the area, and Varthur is no exception.49

Varthur Lake is part of a system of interconnected tanks and canals that receive virtually all the surface runoff, wastewater, and sewage from the Bangalore South taluk. The Bangalore South taluk alone has experienced a surge in its population from 2,84,556 to 4,45,581 between 1971 and 1981. 47

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47. Census of India, 1981

48. Times of India, 27-09-2000

49. STATUS OF WETLANDS IN BANGALORE, TECHNICAL REPORT 86: Ramachandra T.V.,

Kiran R., Ahalya N, Deepa R.S. Source: Survey of India , 1980. Bangalore District. 1st Edition No. 57

H/9.

It is constantly contaminated by residential, agricultural, commercial and industrial wastes. Silt and sediment-laden water enters the lake from the Bellandur canal, Challaghatta. The local municipal corporation dumps garbage in the lake. Contamination of water has led to several problems in the area like increase in mosquito menace and many have even suffered from malaria and dermatitis. Principal of a school nearby, M.A Khan said the lake is eutrophic with high concentration of phosphorous and organic matter. The Dissolved oxygen (DO) level is extremely low, so there is no aquatic life. Residents fear the place flooding up. Since the developers had encroached into the canal and put four metre diameter pipes, It had obstructed flow of water.50

The Varthur Lake is also facing serious problems of privatization.A college had also been built on the lake bund in 2003. 51

The joint legislature house committee observed that at least 54 acres of government land worth Rs 400 crore have been encroached upon in Varthur, after inspecting the area in June, 2007. A T Ramaswamy, chairman of the committee, set up to identify government land encroachments, had said that they had urged the government to punish the officials who had connived with private parties and encroached upon the lake.52

Status: The Ecology and Environment Department plans to take up work to improve the lake. "It will be done shortly under Government of India’s National Lake Conservation Programme," said Secretary Ecology and Environment Mohammad Sanaulla.50

Work Done: LDA had written to City Municipal Council and Pollution Control Board to take steps to check contamination of lake. Even Pollution Control Board officials said that sewage water enters into the lake. ‘‘Though there is sewage treatment plant of adequate capacity on the banks of Bellandur Lake, all the sewage water do not enter the plant but flows directly to the Varthur Lake,” an official said. The Centre for Ecological Science, Energy Research Group of IISc had done a study on the lake. The study revealed the possible impact of water contamination on crops.50

__________________________________________________________________50. “Varthur Lake Dying”, by Dipannita Das, New Indian Express, 0 2 - 0 8 - 2 0 0 6

5 1 . Times of India, 27-08-2003

52. “Officials' hand in encroachment”, 08-06-2007,

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Officials_hand_in_encroachment/rssarticleshow/2107651cms

Yediyur Lake

Source:http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n216/harisaravanan/Vinayaka%20Chaturthi%202006/Yediyurlakereadyformurtis.jpg

History: The distinguished feature of this fresh water lake is the sculpture of a girl by artist John Devaraj costing Rs. 2.63 lakh, situated right at the centre of the lake.

Location: The Yediyur tank is situated on the Kanakapura, the road in Jayanagar area of the south of the city. The tank has park and residential layout adjacent the tank.

Statistics: It covers an area of about 4 hectares 53 / 6.45 hectares 54 /1 hectare 55. The tank has two major inlets and two outlets.

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53. http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/water/paper/wrc/wrc_right_down_wq.html54. http://parisaramahiti.kar.nic.in/pseries.html55. “Yediyur lake among most polluted” by Daksha Hathi, Deccan Herald, 10-01-2001

Problems:

A file photo of Yediyur Lake in Jayanagar in Bangalore source: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/16/stories/2007051616860200.htm

It was noticed that the tank receives both industrial and domestic sewage apart from the solid wastes dumped across the periphery of the tank serving as a breeding ground for mosquitoes and emitting obnoxious odour. This tank is heavily infested with microcystis which indicates the tank is polluted. The Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES) of the IISc which did a one year study of the Yediyur lake, (funded by the Ministry of Environment and Forests) comparing it with the Bannerghatta lake issued an urgent appeal for restoration of the former, which is severely polluted. The CES monitored Yediyur’s water quality for a year and noted that:

Waters were greenish black High chloride levels of 109.8 mg/ltr Hardness due to domestic and industrial washings Total dissolved solids ranging from 208 to 428 mg/ltr Other impurities due to food wastes and detergents Persistent blooms of toxic blue-green algae Biological Oxygen Demand(BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand(COD) High concentration of chlorides in an indicator of pollution due to high

organic wastes of animal or industrial origin. Breeding ground for mosquitoes 55

Encroachments: Of total 6.88 hectares of the lake area, 2.43 hectares has been encroached upon.56

54. “BJP members urge BCC to renovate Puttanna Theatre”, Vijay Times, 08-03-2006

Physical Parameters: The tank water was greenish owing to the high plankton density. High values of turbidity were noticed mainly due to plankton and sewage. Transparency of 5 - 14 cms indicates low light penetration. The temperature of the water measured during sampling time (10-11 am) varied from 23 - 29 ºC.

Chemical Parameters: The pH of the sample was mostly towards alkaline ranging from 7.5 to 10.1. The decrease in pH during the monsoons may be due to characteristic of sewage, decreased photosynthetic activity and also by the inflow of surface runoff waters. Maximum values noticed during summer months may be due to increased photosynthetic activity by the algal blooms.The Dissolved Oxygen of the tank ranged from 4.0 to 10.0 mg/L at the center and from 3.8 to 8.9 mg/L towards the inlet. Relatively lower values at the inlet was due to the sewage and solid wastes preventing air-water interaction and decomposition of organic matter leading to lower dissolved oxygen. The higher values noticed at the center may be due to the higher planktonic density resulting in higher photosynthetic activity. The Chemical Oxygen Demand values ranged from 84 mg/L in Oct'97 to a high of 378 mg/L during Apr'97 at the center and 112 mg/L in Sept'97 to high of 370 mg/L during Apr'97 towards inlet. During April'97 high values of COD was noticed, which may be due to less volume of water (evaporation) and continued inflow of sewage. The lower values during Sept-Oct'97 is due to inflow of catchment runoff resulted in dilution (Monsoon).The Biological Oxygen Demand values ranged from 14 - 32 mg/L towards the center of the lake and 17 - 31 mg/L towards the inlet where there was high influx of pollutants.The Suspended Solids in the lake was about 151.8 (avg) ± 58.6 (SD) mg/L towards the center and 167.5 (avg) ±48.2 (SD) mg/L towards the inlet. The high suspended solids were noticed during summer which may due to the algal blooms resulting in higher plankton density towards the center and due to sewage at the inlet. Maximum Total Solids were noticed both at inlet and towards the center which may be due to decreased water depth and inflow of sewage. The Total Dissolved Solids showed higher values towards the inlet ranging from 208 - 428 mg/L at an average of 272.0 mg/L. Similarly at the center it ranged from 212 to 402 mg/L at an average of 296.4 mg/L. The dissolved solids were noticed to be more during the summer at both points, which may due to the lower water levels.The higher concentration of Chlorides, an indicator of organic pollution In the present study chlorides were noted at an average of 109.8 mg/L at the center and 96.0 mg/L towards the inlet. The Total Hardness ranged from 157.1 ± 30.5 mg/L towards the center to 146.5 ± 34.1 mg/L at inlet respectively. The main source of hardness in this lake was noticed which is due to the domestic and the industrial sewage apart from the non-point source runoff.The major cat ions Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Sodium showed noticeable variations. Calcium, Magnesium and Sodium were at 74.2 ± 19.5, 20.2 ± 10.9 and 80.1 ± 12.6 mg/L respectively.

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57. http://ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlands/result.html#YED

The Yediyur Lake in Bangalore is very polluted, says a study conducted by the IISc, Bangalore. The ministry of environment and forests funded the one-year study which was done by IISc's CES. The CES study shows that Yediyur is now a cesspool clogged with domestic and industrial sewage. The lake waters have become greenish black and are loaded with high chloride levels. Domestic and industrial effluents have also contaminated the water and its total dissolved solids ranges from 208-428 milligrammes per litre. Its value of biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chlorides and other impurities are much higher than the limits set by the World Health Organisation and the Central Pollution Control Board. "The air around the Yediyur is foul. It has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. There is an immediate need to check its pollution," said Ramachandra T V, a scientist with CES. The scientists, who conducted the study, have urged the state government to take steps for the restoration of the lake.58

Funds: The BMP announced that the lake will be developed and renovated in a phased

manner at an estimated cost of Rs.60 lakhs. According to a BMP release Mayor M.Ramachandrappa undertook an inspection of the rain affected areas in south Bangalore today and announced that Rs. 60 lakhs has already been released for development of Yediyur Lake. The overall development of the lake will be taken up in stages for which work will soon commence, the release added. The Mayor called upon the public not to dispose organic waste and garbage into the lake which will be given a new look soon. M.Ramachandrappa instructed the officials concerned to take measures to prevent logging of rain water in the Yediyur ward. He also instructed them to clear the secondary drained which had clogged on K.R road. He inspected the construction of secondary storm water drains at Yediyur circle. M.L.A Ramalinga Reddy, local corporator Padmavathi Ganghadhar Gowda, zonal chief Engineer Shiva Prasad and health officer Dr. S.D Nagaraj accompanied the mayor, release said.59

The Mayor, P.R Ramesh assured the residents that the work would be completed within a month. The BMP had taken up the project at a cost of Rs. 3.25 crore. But the contractors had stopped the work half way through.60

Corporator of the Ward and former Mayor Ms. Padmavathi Gangadhara Gowda says that the lake can be saved. The BMP has sanctioned Rs. 60 lakh for restoration of the lake in the year 2000 and is expected to grant another Rs. 60 lakh next year. 61

Expressing unhappiness over the delay in works with regard to the lake’s development, BJP leader Basavaraj alleged that despite sanction of Rs. 3.90 crore for development of the lake, the work yet to be completed.56

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58. http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/poluted.html

59. “BMP Announces Plan to Develop Yediyur Lake”, Deccan Herald, 04-10-200060. http://www.thehindu.com/2004/07/01/stories/2004070115130300.html 61. “There is Both Method and Madness Here” by T Venkatesh Babu, Deccan Herald, 19-11-2000

Restoration: The Cleaning of the lake was started by an NGO Janotsava led by John Devaraj.62

The Corporator of the ward and former mayor MS.Padmavathi Gangadhara Gowda, said that Minor Irrigation Minister Kumar Bangarappa had promised Rs. 15 lakhs from the department for desilting of the tank during the summer of 2000-01. But the work was progressing at a slow pace which was a worrying factor.

Desilting: The development of the lake was awarded to Shamaraju Constructions. As per the Karnataka Municipal Corporation (KMC) Act, the company should have desilted the lake at a depth of 5 metres as part of the development process, but they have desilted only 1 metre. Despite this, BJP leader Basavaraj said the BCC had cleared their bill for Rs. 2.65 crore.56

The lake restoration system, slated for completion in March 2004, is yet to be completed. The restoration of the lake began in June 2004 at a cost of Rs. 3.25 crore. Taken up in two phase- the 1st phase included desilting of the lake and civic works like construction of drain water diversion channel, culverts, inlet arrangements and construction of tank bunds. The second phase of the project included work on the beautification of the lake.63

The contractor Shamaraju and company withdrew from the project a month ago due to non cooperation from some elected representatives and local officials in implementing the project on time. The BMP had March as the deadline so that the lake would receive enough water during rains. As a result BMP took up the task of completing the half done work. BMP chief engineer Rame Gowda said that the project would be completed at the end of October. Till the new contractor starts his work the BMP staff would take up the job of deweeding the lake so that the water is stored during the monsoon.64

Shyamaraju and company(India),PVT LTds Chairman and MD P.Shyamaraju said the emptying of the tank bed had been completed and about 1,20,000 cubic metre of silt had been removed.65

Status: As part of World Environment Day celebrations, in June2007, the BBMP took up an intensive cleaning programme of Yediyur Lake.

62. “Symbol of Hope is Gone with the Silt”, Deccan Herald, 22-05-200363. “Clean Lake a Distant Dream” by Chandrashekar G, BVT, 11-01-200564. “Missing the Monsoons; Lake might have to Wait” by P.M Raghunandan, Deccan Herald, 05-07-200465. “Restoration Work of Lakes may not be Complete in Time”, Deccan Herald, 02-03-2003

Recommendations

These are some of the recommendations put forth to rectify the situation of wetlands in Bangalore:

Setting up a National committee on wetlands, reclamation, restoration and development to enable formulation of a National policy on Wetlands and for their sustainable use. To create a database with regard to their present status, sustainable use, management and conservation.

Integration of different government departments for wetland conservation. Lakes and rivers in each zilla panchayat to be identified and their streams to be recharged through people’s participation. Setting up of people’s watchdog teams to prevent dumping of wastes into water bodies. Preparation of a comprehensive plan to study selected representative wetlands in a phased manner.

Mass awareness programme on importance of rivers and wetlands. A comprehensive plan to study aquatic biodiversity in inland aquatic bodies and CES to be entrusted to co-ordinate at National and International level. Ownership and legal status of lakes and inhabitants around it to be properly defined. Training courses for the public to undertake restoration works.

Fishermen socio-economic status to be considered before formulating a wetland strategy. 66

Another suggestion of the Government about privatizing the management of the lakes was opposed by people from various walks of life.

At a conference "Lakes-2006, environmental education and ecological conservation" organized by the Energy and Wetlands Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES), Indian Institute of Science; T.V. Ramachandra, convener of the symposium, said the move of the State Government to privatize the management of lakes and tanks in Bangalore had only spelt the death knell of the few lakes that remain in the city.

"Lakes and tanks must be looked after by the people and the Government. Having worked with children and students, and involved them in many projects that address the conservation needs of water bodies in Bangalore, I think these water bodies should become the experimental laboratories for school and college students," he said.

The motto "develop or perish" had played havoc with the wetlands in the city and elsewhere, and the connectivity of these water bodies had been snapped, while on the other hand, they have become the receptacles for sewage and effluents and other hazardous wastes. 67

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66. “Recommendations”, Deccan Herald, 02-02-200167. 29-12-2006

Article 51-A (g) of the Indian Constitution proclaims that it is a duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including the lakes.

It is necessary to raise awareness among the public about the consequences of heavy metal pollutants. Most water sources in Bangalore are sewage fed, and immersions of idols in such water bodies defeat the purpose of festivals and their sanctity. The public is advised to use clay idols (without any paint) and immerse them in a bucket of water, which could later be used in gardens. 68

Modern ideas of rainwater harvesting in buildings and parks, applied to residential extensions may also help a great deal in improving the fresh water inflow into the dried up tanks and natural reservoirs. 69

The Chief Minister, Mr. S.M. Krishna, said on Friday that the Government was ready to utilize the expertise of the armed forces, which removed water hyacinth from the Ulsoor Lake, for similar operations in other tanks in Bangalore, which had been polluted by sewage. 70

A main component of the lake restoration work will involve diverting sewage flows (as distinct from rainwater) away from the lakes. This will be the only way to keep freshwater lakes alive and with them the fish, birds, and other creatures which maintain the ecologic balance and control mosquito breeding. 71

68. URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/29/stories/2006122909590400.htm

69. “City of forsaken lakes”, By K. Chandramouli

70. “Army Helps Lakes:CM” http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/army.htm

71. “Lakes may regain their lost glory”, http://wgbis.ces.iisc.ernet.in/energy/wetlandnews/glory.htm