A public consultation was held on Monday to create awareness about the poor state of Varthur lake and its importance.

Organised by M A Khan, Principal of KK English High School, Varthur and IISc scientist T V Ramachandra, the programme was attended by Varthur residents and like-minded citizens.

The audience was informed about the level of pollution of the lake and how the water body has been contaminated over the years. “The villagers are aware of the problem and how it has deteriorated in the last 15 years. This is the first time a consultation was held for Varthur lake and we are thinking of holding multiple campaigns that will include sending memorandums to government officials, educating school children about lakes, among others," said Murali G, a citizen and member of Hagadur Ward Committee.

The organisers hope that the event will spur the locals to take up the issue and pressure the State government to take measures to save the lake. Terming the response to the consultation as good, Khan said, “Earlier the lake was a source of life but now it has become a threat to those living close by.  Teachers and 60 children from various schools located in the vicinity also took part on Monday. We plan to send a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and request the centre to take steps to save the lake.”