Lokayukta flags massive lake encroachments in Kolar, seeks time-bound action

Lokayukta Justice B.S. Patil has expressed serious concern over large-scale encroachments and irregularities in lakes across Kolar district, and has directed revenue and survey officials to complete pending work and submit a detailed compliance report.

At a review meeting held on March 25, officials from multiple taluks of Kolar district appeared before the authority and furnished status reports on lake surveys and encroachment clearance.

According to officials, KGF taluk has 325 lakes, of which surveys have been completed for 200, while a re-survey of 46 lakes is pending due to outdated records and fresh encroachments. In Bangarpet taluk, all 377 lakes have been surveyed, with encroachments identified in a few cases, most of which have been cleared, while notices have been issued in others.

Srinivaspur taluk reported 617 lakes, including several that have shrunk into small ponds, with encroachments such as residential constructions detected in multiple locations. Mulbagal taluk has 803 lakes, of which as many as 381 were found encroached, and in some instances, lake lands were allegedly recorded in private names and removed from official records. In Kolar taluk, 566 lakes were identified, with surveys completed for 565, but encroachments continue in several water bodies, officials said.

The Lokayukta observed that illegal occupation of lake lands, delays in surveys, and administrative lapses have contributed to the degradation of water bodies. Officials cited staff shortages and technical issues for the delay in completing surveys and preparing sketches. Warning of strict action, Lokayukta Justice Patil directed authorities to expedite re-surveys, clear encroachments, and submit an action taken report before the next hearing scheduled on May 26, 2026. He also cautioned that costs would be imposed on officials for non-compliance.