Sewage Inflow Threatens Bengaluru's Rejuvenated Vengaiah Lake

Residents and activists have raised concerns over persistent sewage leakage into Vengaiah Lake in Bengaluru, warning that the inflow threatens to undo the water body's recent revival. The lake underwent an extensive rejuvenation project two years ago at an estimated cost of Rs 11 crore.

According to lake activist Balaji Raghotham, the latest leakage was spotted near the north-eastern side of the lake. He noted that sewage entering the area is supposed to be redirected away from the water body through a dedicated diversion channel. He urged authorities to intervene immediately to prevent further contamination.

Regular lake visitor Rajeah Mahajan and activist KN Guruprasad also warned that the ongoing sewage inflow poses a severe hazard to the ecological health of the water body.

This is not the first time untreated waste has entered Vengaiah Lake. Last October, residents reported untreated water flowing into the lake after the stormwater drain department of a nearby sewage treatment plant (STP) reportedly used an earthmover to clear a silt-clogged drain, leading to an accidental overflow.

Responding to the concerns, an Executive Engineer (Lakes) from the Bengaluru East City Corporation (BECC) stated that the pipeline at the site is intended solely to carry treated water from the nearby STP into the lake. The official noted that it remains unclear how sewage entered the line and confirmed plans to consult with Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) engineers to implement corrective measures.