₹50 crore plan to revive, desilt North Bengaluru’s lakes

Bengaluru's civic body, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), has announced a ₹50 crore project to revive and desilt a cluster of 12 lakes in the northern part of the city. The initiative, aimed at tackling both water scarcity and recurrent flooding, will focus on lakes in areas such as Yelahanka, Jakkur, and Hebbal.

Scope of the project

The plan includes comprehensive restoration work ranging from desilting to construction of boundary walls and walking tracks. Officials said the project will also involve removal of invasive aquatic weeds and improvement of biodiversity around the water bodies.

Each lake will be treated based on its specific condition. Some require deep desilting to recover storage capacity, while others need immediate cleaning of encroachments and solid waste. The BBMP has identified 12 lakes that are in urgent need of intervention.

Why North Bengaluru?

North Bengaluru has witnessed rapid urbanisation over the past decade, leading to increased pressure on its water bodies. Many lakes in this zone have shrunk due to encroachments and silt accumulation, reducing their ability to hold rainwater.

During heavy rains, several low-lying areas in Yelahanka and Hebbal have faced waterlogging. The desilting is expected to enhance the storage capacity of these lakes, thereby mitigating flood risks. It will also help recharge groundwater in the region.

Phased execution

According to BBMP officials, the project will be executed in two phases over a period of 18 months. The first phase, covering six lakes, is expected to begin within a month after tenders are finalised.

The second phase will focus on the remaining six lakes. The civic body has said it will prioritise lakes that are most degraded and those that serve as primary water sources for nearby communities.

Community involvement

Local resident welfare associations and lake groups have been consulted during the planning stage. The BBMP has promised to keep them engaged during execution to ensure transparency and long-term maintenance.

Some activists, however, have expressed concerns about the quality of past restoration work. They urge the BBMP to adopt a scientific approach and ensure that the desilted material is disposed of properly without damaging the ecosystem.

Financial breakdown

Of the ₹50 crore outlay, around ₹30 crore has been earmarked for desilting and strengthening lake embankments. The remaining funds will be used for fencing, walkways, lighting, and landscaping.

The BBMP plans to monitor the project through a dedicated oversight committee. Regular progress reports will be made public, officials said.

Work on the first six lakes is likely to begin by September 2026, with completion targeted before the next monsoon season.