Bengaluru's Chikkabellandur Lake restoration project launched

Bengaluru's Chikkabellandur Lake is set to undergo a major restoration, with a budget of Rs 10 crore. The project comes after years of pollution, neglect, and public calls for action. The lake will be revived within 11 months, starting with the bidding process soon. The lake, covering 54 acres, has suffered from sewage, garbage, and silt. Local activists are pleased to see funding allocated but demand transparency on project details. Two of the lake's three inlets are blocked, leading to concerns about water quality and access for the community. The BBMP plans to begin renovation in June. Activists emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach, including clearing encroachments, restoring the lake's ecology, and incorporating traditional features. The project aims to revitalize not just the lake, but also its significance to the community. In a broader effort, the BBMP has allocated Rs 75 crore from flood mitigation funds to renovate ten other lakes in the city, including Hebbal and Nagawara. Officials are preparing to call for tenders for these projects, which will focus on enhancing water capacity and improving infrastructure.