In Chikkaballapur, Kandwara Lake has been designated for groundwater recharge under the HN Valley project. However, this hasn’t deterred individuals from engaging in fishing activities despite clear prohibitions. The Minor Irrigation Department and HN Valley Project officials have issued a stern warning against using the water for drinking or agriculture.
The lake is off-limits for swimming and sand removal, as indicated by a prominent board installed by the Minor Irrigation Department near the city’s Kandwara Lake. It specifically states that legal action will be taken if water is used unlawfully. Nevertheless, activities continue unabated, with some individuals catching and selling fish grown in semi-treated water. Moreover, it has come to light that UGD (Under Ground Drainage) water from the city is flowing into Kandwara Lake, raising concerns about its safety for consumption and its environmental impact due to pollution.
The HN Valley Project’s use of semi-treated water has prompted questions about potential health hazards associated with consuming fish caught from these waters. Additionally, concerns have arisen regarding how this could affect groundwater quality and public health.
Despite regulations prohibiting fishing without proper authorization or lease agreements, there are reports of unauthorized fishing taking place in 15 lakes under the HN Valley Irrigation where no tenders or contracts have been issued in two years.
Officials have acknowledged their inability to enforce rules due to insufficient staffing levels within fisheries departments. Concerns persist about how unchecked fishing activities might affect public health and sustainability in Chikkaballapur’s important aquatic ecosystems.