Shivapura-Nelagadarenahalli lake going Bellandur way

Located closer to one of Asia’s largest industrial parks–the Peenya Industrial Estate- the Shivapura-Nelagadarenahalli lake is going the Bellandur way.

Garbage dumped in the lake, coupled with untreated discharge of industrial effluent, is choking the life out of this lake. Residents complaint that the small scale industries located in the Shivapura area are dumping industrial waste and debris.

Despite the rapid pollution, people in the area continue to use its water for washing clothes and cattle, while some nearby farmers also allow their livestocks to grace near the lake.

"Slum dwellers and the garment factory workers are dumping waste," said Prasanna, a resident. "Besides garbage, they also dump alcohol bottles and plastic containers."

Kavitha, who resides close by, said people dump debris and some industrial oil. “Birds that drank this water have died,” she added.

Not too long ago, local villagers had used the lake water for drinking purposes. “This water used to be good forty years back,” said local villager Hanumantha Gowda. “The lake used to be very big. Now, it has shrunk in size and the remaining parts have been encroached. On top of it, the water is also contaminated.”

Malyadri Reddy M, president, Peenya Industrial Area Association, blames the negligence of the local authority for the pollution. “We’ve given several complaints on the pollution of the lake in Peenya Industrial Area to the local representative. But they aren’t concerned,” he said. "Our association is very concerned to protect the environment of Asia’s largest industrial Estate. We also need to conserve the lake for our future generation as well."

DH News Service