Flamingo sighting sparks fresh push to rejuvenate Bengaluru's Varthur Lake

Bengaluru: The sighting of a greater flamingo in the shallow waters of Varthur Lake has renewed calls to restore the polluted waterbody, choked by untreated sewage from Bengaluru.

The bird’s presence has drawn crowds in recent days, with speculation mounting over why a species that typically avoids inland lakes has ventured into the city.

Deepa Mohan, an avid birder, said it was too early to determine the reason.

"The last time the bird was sighted near the city was at Hoskote Lake. For Varthur, we are hearing theories about changing monsoon currents, weather patterns and other possible causes. A thorough study is needed before drawing conclusions," she said.

The Greater flamingo sleeping in the shallow waters of Varthur Lake. PHOTO: Deepa Mohan 

The flamingo’s arrival has also turned the attention back to the long-delayed rejuvenation of the Bellandur–Varthur lake network.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had set a deadline of August 2022, but the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has since sought more time.

BDA officials said that about 70% of desilting at Bellandur Lake is complete, with further work on hold until the rains subside. While work at Varthur Lake is nearly finished, the delay in the works at upstream Bellandur has left it vulnerable to untreated sewage.

"The flamingo’s visit is unusual, but it underlines the urgency of saving our lakes," Deepa noted.