Bengaluru: Once a vibrant urban waterbody, Hosakerehalli Lake in south Bengaluru has fallen into severe neglect, with residents and environmental activists raising concerns over garbage dumping, unchecked weed growth and the lack of restoration efforts.
Spread across 59 acres in the Vrishabhavathi river basin, the lake has deteriorated over the years, with locals alleging that repeated complaints to authorities have failed to bring meaningful action.
Residents raise alarm over lake’s condition
Residents say the lake, once known for its ecological value, has become a dumping ground for waste and a hotspot for illegal activities.
Ramaprasad V of Friends of Lakes said authorities have overlooked the primary purpose of the waterbody, which is flood mitigation.
He added that inadequate citizen participation in restoration efforts has further contributed to the lake’s decline.
Environmentalist Joseph Hoover said preserving Hosakerehalli Lake is essential for maintaining groundwater levels. He recalled that nearly a decade ago the lake held clean water, but the discharge of untreated sewage gradually destroyed its ecosystem.
Poor planning blamed for deterioration
Activists also criticised past civic works around the lake, including the construction of retaining walls after cutting down surrounding trees.
Local resident Rachana Ravi said the natural tree cover acted as a protective barrier, and its removal has worsened flooding in nearby residential areas during heavy rains. She claimed that garbage, sewage and silt now overflow into surrounding neighbourhoods.
Lake activist Nagesh Aras alleged that provisions of the Karnataka Tank Conservation and Development Authority Act have not been implemented, pointing out that officials responsible for the day-to-day management of the lake have not been appointed for several years.
Rejuvenation plans await approval
A Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) official said the Bengaluru West Corporation Commissioner has already directed that Hosakerehalli Lake be rejuvenated and a walking pathway developed around it.
However, the project is awaiting financial approval before work can begin.
Residents and environmental groups have urged authorities to expedite the restoration process, warning that continued neglect could further damage Bengaluru’s already fragile urban ecosystem and increase the risk of flooding in the surrounding areas.