Untreated sewage discharge into ‘hidden jewel’ sparks health concerns among residents

Bengaluru: The entry of untreated sewage into Mullur Lake has sparked health concerns among residents.

Located along the 100 Feet Road connecting Sarjapur Road with Gunjur-Doddakannelli Road, the lake, once considered a hidden jewel, was rediscovered after the road’s construction two years ago.

However, rapid development in the area has led to sewage inflows, reportedly from buildings lacking sewage treatment plants (STPs).

With summer approaching and the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) banning potable water for recreational purposes, residents fear a harsh season ahead, compounded by the risk of infectious diseases.

Freesto Francis, a local resident, said he used to walk along the 2.5-km pavement surrounding the lake, but has stopped due to worsening conditions. "The area has become increasingly dirty, and the stench is unbearable,” he said.

He also raised concerns over the government's push for Cauvery water connections, which require apartment residents to spend lakhs without a guarantee of long-term supply.

“While apartments are mandated to have STPs, paying guest accommodations are not, leading to unchecked sewage disposal into the lake,” another resident pointed out.

The lake was revamped a year ago through a private company’s CSR funding. However, residents claim that efforts by the Kodathi gram panchayat have failed to curb sewage inflow and prevent garbage dumping.

Manjunath, acting president of the Kodathi gram panchayat, said an action committee has been formed to address the issue. “We have written multiple letters to the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), but no action has been taken since the land doesn’t belong to us. We have now requested Bescom to cut power supply to the PGs,” he added.

Similar concerns at Dorekere Lake

The situation is equally dire at Dorekere Lake near Kumaraswamy Layout, where sewage inflow and garbage dumping have led to eutrophication and poor maintenance.

“Sewage remains stagnant due to algae growth, making the entire area unclean with an unbearable smell,” said Ramesh, a local resident.

Manjunath, a frequent visitor, added that the lake suffers from neglect, with pending infrastructure work such as fencing and unwalkable footpaths.

Addressing the concerns, BBMP Chief Engineer (Lakes) Vijay Kumar Haridas assured that the issues at Dorekere Lake will be rectified at the earliest.

Sewage mixes with garbage at Dorekere Lake.