Encroachments on lake buffer zones will go, says Law minister

Law Minister T B Jayachandra has said the government is contemplating to remove encroachments on the buffer zones of lakes across the state.

Interacting with media here on Tuesday, Jayachandra, who also holds the minor irrigation portfolio, said if lakes are not protected then groundwater would further deplete leading to severe water shortage. Hence, the buffer zones should be conserved.

Officers have been directed to remove encroachments on lakebeds in all districts, he added.

The minister said the extent of buffer zone to be marked around lakes has not yet been decided. After fixing the parameters, the boundaries of lakes would be protected, he stated.
Jayachandra said the minor irrigation department has done away with awarding works up to Rs 5 lakh on a piece-meal basis.