Due to delayed salary disbursements by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), around 40 marshals responsible for safeguarding the city’s infamous Varthur and Bellandur lakes resigned about a week ago. This has led to growing concerns among residents and environmental activists, who fear a rise in unchecked waste dumping without vigilant supervision.

Lake advocate Jagadish Reddy highlighted that the buffer zones around the lakes are being encroached upon by migrants, leading to large-scale waste disposal. “This heightens the risk of fire hazards and pollutants being released into the lakes,” he explained. Earlier, 45 marshals ensured 24/7 surveillance of the lakes. However, in recent days, only 2-3 marshals have been seen at the sites.

Reddy also noted that due to the lake’s pollution, the National Green Tribunal imposed a hefty Rs 500 crore fine on the state government. While the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) was assigned the task of revitalizing the lakes, BBMP was entrusted with security, including the installation of surveillance cameras and deployment of marshals.

Despite promises of timely pay, marshals revealed that Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) has been regularly late with salaries, sometimes paying only once every three to four months. As a result, many marshals resigned, citing financial pressures.

BBMP’s chief engineer, Vijaykumar Haridas, distanced the body from the issue, clarifying that the marshals aren’t officially under their jurisdiction. Meanwhile, BSWML officials claimed to be unaware of the ongoing situation.

#BengaluruLakes #LakeProtection #SalaryDelays #EnvironmentalNeglect