HC notice to govt on constructions near Agara, Bellandur lakes

The High Court on Monday ordered issuance of notices to State government, including Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board, Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike and Bangalore Development Authority, on a petition seeking control on construction activities on rajakaluve leading to Agara Lake and Bellandur Lake. 

Hearing the PIL, the division bench comprising Justice K L Manjunath and Justice H S Kempanna ordered notices.  The petitioner Namma Bengaluru Foundation contended that government had allowed construction activities by two private companies which had rapidly encroached upon rajakalues running through the land blocking flow of water into Bellandur Lake. 

The petitioner also contended that real estate developers Mantri Techzone Pvt Ltd and Core Mind Software & Services Pvt Ltd (both respondents), had proposed a Rs 2,300 crore project for setting up SEZ park, hospitality and residential sector and mall covering approximately 80 acre immediately abutting Agara lake. 

The petitioner further contended that the said project lies between Agara and Bellandur Lake and is located on the valley land that connects the two lakes and if construction and encroachment is not stayed, it would result in irreparable damage to environment.  
The petitioner has sought stay order on all construction activities in the said area.