Subramanyapura lake set for new life after a decade of neglect

After a decade of neglect, the rejuvenation of Subramanyapura lake in Uttharahalli ward has finally started.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), which is the custodian of the lake, has taken up the work at a cost of Rs 3 crore. The work includes diversion of sewage, removal of silt and weeds, excavation and construction of a walkway around it.

To start with, the Palike has dismantled the waste weir of the lake to drain out the sewage from the nearby apartments accumulated there. Once the water flows out, the Palike, with the help of BWSSB, will lay sewage diversion pipes.

A BBMP engineer said the rejuvenation of the lake may take at least six months to a year.

“We are now draining out the sewage and silt accumulated in the lake. Once that is done, we will fix its boundary. We have to do it in a systematic manner,” said the engineer.

The residents of the area were elated that work has finally started. H M Shivaprasad, a resident, said, “It is heartening to see the lake coming to life once again after so many years of neglect. The lake was in bad shape due to sewage from nearby apartments. We appreciate the BBMP for taking up the work.”

He however, expressed his apprehensions about the work. “We have heard that the BBMP is going to take the sewage diversion pipe right from the middle of the lake. If that happens, it will be a disaster. We will not let the Palike do that,” said Shivaprasad.

Another resident R Srinivas Naidu said lake rejuvenation will help increase the groundwater table. “Due to the accumulation of sewage in the lake, groundwater has been polluted. The Palike must ensure that there is transparency in the work,” said Naidu.

About a month ago, freedom fighter H S Doreswamy, with residents and members of United Bengaluru had taken part in a demonstration near the lake demanding its rejuvenation.