First Fire and Now Froth, Bengaluru Lakes Spew Poison

Highly toxic froth from lakes in Bengaluru overflows onto the streets, causing traffic disruptions.

Froth spilling over lake boundaries. (Screengrab)

Massive frothy foam-like discharge flowing from the Bellandur lake in Bengaluru is causing problems for Bengaluru commuters. After the rain last week, the lakes have been completely under the froth suspected to be resulting from untreated effluents. Earlier in February, the same Bellandur lake had caught fire as it was heavily covered by pollutants and toxic substances.

Bengaluru comprises around 6oo lakes, big and small. 90% of them are polluted and unusable as water bodies. Not only Varthur and Bellandur, but other areas were also severely affected by the flowing froth that is now overflowing onto the roads.

Toxic froth creating problems for commuters and vehicles on the road. (Screengrab)

The Siphon system employed to manage the waste and prevent these lakes from generating chemical froth failed. Consequently, the froth flew across the streets, troubling commuters and distracting vehicle drivers.

As one of the fastest growing cities of the country, Bengaluru is expanding rapidly. But lack of proper waste management has turned the city’s lakes into dumping sites. Karnataka State Pollution Control Board chairman Lakshman reportedly said notices have been issued to the BBMP, Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewage Board and other agencies to stop the dumping. He also said the board is in the process of inspecting sewage treatment plants in the area.

Video Editor: Ashutosh Bhardwaj