The lake disappearance in Bengaluru
In the heart of Bengaluru, a city famed for its technological prowess, a dire situation unfolds. As the sun beats down relentlessly, pushing temperatures to a scorching 34 degrees Celsius, the silicon valley finds itself in the grip of its most severe water crisis yet. But amidst this heatwave, another crisis simmers silently: the gradual disappearance of the city's lifeblood, its lakes.
The vanishing lakes
Once boasting over 200 shimmering lakes in the 1980s, Bengaluru's water bodies were the pride of Karnataka. However, today, these once-thriving lakes are vanishing at an alarming rate.
A grim reality
As per a report by the House committee in 2021, 837 lakes in Bengaluru Urban district have vanished, with 88 lakes disappearing entirely, covering an area of 1,307 acres. It also states 80% of the remaining lakes are polluted and unsuitable for any use.
Urbanization threatens precious water bodies
The rapid pace of urbanization in Bengaluru is gradually consuming its precious water bodies. Lakes and ponds serve as natural reservoirs, capturing rainwater and recharging groundwater levels.
Not just in Bengaluru but whole Karnataka
Based on the census report, Karnataka is home to approximately 26,994 lakes and water bodies. Shockingly, a staggering 78.2% of these, totaling 21,120, have either dried up completely or suffered irreversible damage beyond repair.
Pelicans now a rare sight in lakes
Once a symbol of Bengaluru's lakes, the graceful spot-billed pelicans are now mere rarities in the city's skies. These fish-loving water birds, once seen in lakes such as Madiwala, Hebbal, and Jakkur, are now only glimpsed once in a blue moon