Lokayukta takes suo motu case over polluted lakes in Doddaballapur

The Karnataka Lokayukta has taken up a suo motu case against administrative officers, including the Tahsildar, assistant directors, and other executive officers of Doddaballapur taluk, for failing to maintain lakes within their jurisdiction and for allowing the discharge of industrial effluents.

The order specifically listed Doddatumakuru Lake and Chikkatumakuru Lake, spanning 326 acres and 75 acres, respectively, noting that both water bodies are excessively polluted. The order noted that the sewage treatment plants built in 2017 at the two lakes are not functioning in a scientific manner.

It observed that treated and untreated sewage of Doddaballapur mixes with industrial waste generated by 52 industries in Bashettihalli and eventually flows into these lakes.

The Arkavathi River, which originates from the Nandi Hills, flows into Doddaballapur in an uncontaminated state. However, industrial effluents and sewage from Doddaballapur town enter the river, polluting the water body. The contaminated water then flows into the two lakes and subsequently reaches Hesaraghatta and Tippagondanahalli before finally flowing into Bengaluru.

Issued by B. Veerappa, Upalokayukta-2, the order stated that the officials had failed to take remedial measures to stop the flow of effluents.