Karnataka CM: All lakes to be encroachment-free

BENGALURU: Encroachments will be removed from all lakes in the city within a specific time frame, chief minister BS Yediyurappa said on Tuesday as he met residents affected by the bund breach.


He also inspected the site of Sunday’s incident, which sent the lake water gushing into nearby neighbourhoods and homes. Thousands of people were affected by the flooding, which also damaged scores of vehicles.

“Removal of encroachments from lakes will be a priority of our government. There are already standing directions for officials to inspect and clear encroachments,” Yediyurappa said.

He was responding to a query from this respondent on how

Hulimavu

lake’s area had shrunk from 150 acres to 120 acres.

When he was informed that BBMP’s relief camp, set up inside a badminton court, stood on an encroached portion, he said: “Let officers examine the problem. As economically weaker sections have constructed their houses in the area, it will be difficult to demolish all unauthorised structures in one go. I will take a call after officials submit a report on the issue.” The chief minister has also demanded a report on the

lake bund breach

from BBMP. “However, directions have already been issued to take strict action against those who responsible for the manmade breach,” he said.

Yediyurappa spoke to victims and promised help.

BBMP to get custody of 38 more lakes?

The state government reportedly plans to transfer the responsibility of 38 lakes to BBMP, which is already the custodian of 178 lakes. The 38 lakes are currently with the forest department, Bangalore Development Authority and metro corporation BMRCL. BBMP chief BH Anil Kumar cited funding as a difficulty in handling the task. “BBMP doesn’t have required funds to take up the work of creating better pathways, installing lights and strengthening bunds. A comprehensive report will be prepared and placed before the chief minister and financial assistance will be sought,” he said.

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