The Bengaluru Rural district administration is taking major steps to mitigate environmental concerns in Doddaballapur, where a sewage line was discovered running through the buffer zone of Chikkatumakuru Lake. To address this issue, the administration has pledged Rs 57.70 crore for relocating the underground sewage line and constructing a 21 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) to safeguard the waterbodies from contamination.
This move follows a National Green Tribunal (NGT) order issued two years ago after a petition by activist Girish NP, who documented sewage and industrial effluent flowing into the lakes. In response, the Bengaluru Rural deputy commissioner confirmed that tenders have been issued to relocate the Underground Drainage (UGD) system. Additionally, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the new sewage infrastructure has been submitted for approval by the government.
The project aims to upgrade the existing UGD network and build a new STP to serve Doddaballapur city and surrounding towns like Bashettihalli. Simultaneously, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) conducted inspections and found that seven out of nine factories in the area were violating environmental regulations, including the illegal discharge of effluents into open spaces. Notices have been issued to the offending industries, such as Indigo Blues, Pearl Global, and Hanuman Weaving Factory.
During an inspection on January 6, the KSPCB found Hanuman Weaving Factory discharging effluents into open areas within its premises. The authorities are now focusing on stricter enforcement to ensure the protection of local waterbodies from further pollution.
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