The Federation of Bengaluru Lakes (FBL) has urged the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) to conduct ground-level assessments and comprehensive ecological impact evaluations before finalising its proposed road network around lakes and stormwater drains. The circulation maps reportedly identify hundreds of kilometres of proposed roads along lake and drain buffer zones, raising concerns about the loss of lakhs of trees, biodiversity disruption and reduced water-storage capacity. Volunteers have opposed a blanket approach to constructing roads around waterbodies, calling instead for stricter zoning enforcement, verification of existing road alignments and completion of roads already identified in the Comprehensive Development Plan. The proposals have also raised concerns about Bengaluru’s long-term water security. The GBA has invited public suggestions and objections within 60 days of its October 12 notification, with the deadline set for December 11, 2026. The issue highlights the need to align urban mobility planning with lake conservation, natural drainage and climate resilience.
Source: Deccan Herald