City Pulse

Uttarahalli lake would have disappeared into the annals of Bengaluru’s history, had it not been for the grit and determination of a group of active citizens, the Bengaluru chapter of internationally recognized NGO, United Way of Bengaluru, and the support of Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagar Palike (BBMP). United Way of Bengaluru (UWBe) has been working to improve the health of the city through its various civic-related projects. One of their campaigns, Wake the Lake, involves working in tandem with the BBMP and communities of residents to rejuvenate the city’s lakes and give them a new lease of life. Till date, the campaign has covered 16 lakes including Ulsoor and Kaikondrahalli lakes, among others. 

One of their major success stories is the rejuvenation of Uttarahalli lake. The lake, notorious for anti-social activities was derided as a wasteland and not considered to be a community asset, the rightful label for a lake. However, since the lake’s clean up initiated by BBMP, and the implementation of a revival plan by UWBe, the condition of the lake has improved immensely.

Speaking about the project, Manish Michael, Executive Director, UWBe says, “The Wake the Lake campaign started three years ago with a twofold agenda; partner with BBMP, and build a community around lakes.”  

Explaining the procedure adopted for lake rejuvenation, Manish adds that the first step usually involves having the BBMP clearing and repairing sewage lines, dealing with encroachment issues, constructing walkways if required. After this, UWBe, corporate donors, and a group of active citizens initiates beautification of the lake. 

The rejuvenation process:   

When UWBe took over Uttarahalli, about two years back, the lake was in dire straits. “The fence around the lake was badly broken. There were no toilets for walkers; neither did the park have a sewage treatment plant (STP). There were hardly any trees surrounding the lake, and the water body was completely camouflaged by weeds,” says Manish. The dismal condition of the lake ensured no walkers came visiting. 

Before embarking on the rejuvenation process, UWBe undertook a lake score study. “The study was an assessment of the lake and how it fared on various parameters. These parameters included having an STP, fences, security guards, walkability level around the lake, among others. Uttarahalli scored a mere 30 per cent on the score card!” remarks the 37-year-old.  

With the initial research over, the BBMP promptly took over. They created official boundaries, thereby reducing the possibility of encroachment. 

Following BBMP’s work, UWBe constructed fences, freed the lake off weeds, and planted trees. They also employed security guards. To ensure these changes were sustainable, UWBe also created a Walkers’ Association for the daily maintenance of the lake.  

With the help of corporate volunteers like Ingersoll Rand, Goldman Sachs, among others, events strengthening community participation are also held. These events include Lake-a-Thon, tree plantation drive, and various another activities. “Keeping in mind the senior citizens population in the area, we have also conducted eye care and diabetes camps,” says Manish. 

Making an impact: 

Speaking about the positive trajectory of the rejuvenation, the Adugodi resident adds, “Presently, the lake doesn’t have sewage water entering it, thus the aquatic life has enhanced manifold. The biodiversity has improved; we see new fish, ducks in the lake, and indigenous plants are growing, making the place look beautiful. Also, we have managed to plant close to 2,000 trees, which create a natural boundary along the lake. Earlier we would rarely see birds around the lake, today so many different varieties of birds can be spotted.” 

Although much has been achieved, Manish humbly points out that more needs to be done. “On the lake score, Uttarahalli, after rejuvenation, stands at a score of 70 per cent. But there’s room for improvement. We sincerely hope more activities centered around community building takes place, and more residents make themselves available for safeguarding of the lake,” says Manish who has made Bengaluru his home for the last 10- years. 

To connect with UWBe, log onto their website.