BBMP provides ₹10-crore to give Chikkabellandur Lake new look

After years of deterioration, Chikkabellandur Lake in East Bengaluru is finally set for restoration, with the BBMP preparing tenders for a ₹10-crore rejuvenation project. The 54-acre lake, plagued by sewage inflow, illegal dumping, and silt accumulation, is expected to undergo a transformation over the next 11 months.

Despite being under BBMP’s jurisdiction since 2016, the lake remained neglected, prompting activists to push for urgent action. Officials confirmed that this is the first formal rejuvenation since its transfer from BDA. The project, funded under flood disaster management, aims to clear encroachments, reopen blocked inlets, and desilt the waterbody.

Local environmentalists stressed the importance of transparency, demanding public access to the Detailed Project Report (DPR). Activist Chetan Gopal emphasized the need to restore all three inlets, eliminate sewage inflow, and establish a kalyani (stepwell) for religious rituals. Another activist, Samir Rakshit, voiced concerns over delays and urged immediate action.

BBMP plans to initiate work by June 2025, with tenders expected soon. Chikkabellandur is among 10 lakes receiving a share of ₹75 crore from the National Flood Mitigation Fund, with Hebbal and Nagawara lakes securing ₹20 crore each. The rejuvenation drive includes increasing water storage, improving drainage, and afforestation efforts. However, residents remain watchful, awaiting tangible progress.

#BengaluruLakes #ChikkabellandurRevival #BBMPProjects #SaveOurWaterbodies