Staff shortage and fund crunch with the Forest Department have hindered the maintenance of two major lakes in North Bengaluru in Hebbal, and Nagawara. Residents alleged that with no authorities nearby, many have resorted to encroachment and dumping of waste near the lakes.
With the department trying to transfer the two lakes to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike for a long time now, residents and activists say not much attention is being given to the welfare of the lakes.
“They are holding it for the sake of holding it. While they are keeping the water clean, they are doing nothing else for maintenance. Some of us active residents are keeping a watch on those who come and dump garbage and tell them not to do so. But without a proper custodian, this will only increase, and some encroachment might also begin,” said Kiran Kumar, of Hebbal Sarovara Residents’ Welfare Association.
