🌊 What’s happening
Horamavu Agara Lake — a lake in Bengaluru that was rejuvenated about two years ago at a cost of ₹4 crore — is reportedly deteriorating again because untreated sewage is entering the water. (Bangalore Mirror)
Local residents and activists say the lake is “slipping back into the dark side,” expressing concern that the investment and restoration work are being wasted if the pollution isn’t stopped immediately. (Bangalore Mirror)
Resident Concerns & Health Risks
Residents such as one activist say: “the condition of the lake is becoming worse day by day due to sewage entering the lake. The authorities must solve this problem immediately.” (Bangalore Mirror)
Everyday walkers and users of the lake — who visit in the mornings and evenings — fear sewage contamination could become a health hazard. (Bangalore Mirror)
Many are disappointed because they had expected the lake to remain clean after rejuvenation; but instead, they’re seeing pollution rising again. (Bangalore Mirror)
Governance: Blame Game Between Authorities
The restoration was carried out by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Lakes Department. However, residents claim the pollution is being ignored. (Bangalore Mirror)
BBMP says it has escalated the issue to higher authorities and asked Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to fix the problem, alleging that sewage diversion was wrongly routed. (Bangalore Mirror)
On the other hand, a BWSSB engineer responded that the diverted drain is under BBMP’s jurisdiction — effectively shifting responsibility back. (Bangalore Mirror)
This back-and-forth shows a lack of ownership and could delay meaningful action. (Bangalore Mirror)
Why It Matters — and What Could Be Done
This case underscores how urban “rejuvenation” efforts can be undone quickly if long-term sewage management is not addressed. The ₹4 crore investment is at risk of being wasted if corrective action doesn’t follow.
For citizens, contaminated lakes pose health risks, reduce quality of public spaces, and erode trust in civic projects.
There’s a need for coordinated and accountable intervention — clear assignment of responsibility, timely diversion of sewage, regular monitoring, and community engagement to preserve such public assets.