BENGALURU: While the entire city was elated with the recent light rainfall, it brought troubles to residents staying in the vicinity of Yemlur and Varthur lakes. The froth problem aggravated overnight in Varthur, and an obnoxious smell started emanating from Yemlur lake and its surroundings.
“It is sad that just half an hour’s downpour was enough to cause a mess in the city lakes. We are experiencing huge inconvenience while passing through Varthur lake, especially on a two-wheeler. Froth has spilled on the road, blocking visibility partially,” said Kariappa K, a commuter.
While the situation of froth in Yemlur lake is not as bad as that in Varthur, garbage can be seen strewn all around the lake. The foul smell coming from the water body is almost becoming unbearable now for those living in the area.
Shopkeeper Manjunath said: “The pungent smell is tough to bear. We are worried about the health of our children. We have no other option but to live with the bad smell. Though the civic agency finally cleared the garbage pile-up on Friday, the smell persists.”
When contacted, PN Nayak, Engineer Member, Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) said: “We will soon take up the cleaning works in Bellandur lake. Works at Varthur lake will follow. Yemlur lake comes under the BBMP.”
Following the rain, authorities had used 4-6 machines to check the smell and the froth in different city lakes, but in vain.
“Why can’t the BDA take up works properly and simultaneously in both Bellandur and Varthur lake? These issues arise after every rain, but we are yet to find a solution,” said Elan Kulandaivelu, a member of Whitefield Rising.
The pollution levels have increased beyond assimilative capacity in both the lakes and the aquatic life is under threat. While BDA has some short term and long term measures in place for Bellandur lake, no significant step has been taken to infuse life into Varthur and Yemlur lakes.