GBA orders four-month flood plan, pushes eco-friendly lake development

Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao asks five civic corporations to prioritise nature-based solutions, strict pollution control in lakes, and quick flood-mitigation works before monsoon.

With the monsoon approaching, Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao has directed all five corporation Commissioners to prepare a short-term flood mitigation plan focused on works that can be completed within the next four months.

The objective, he said, is to reduce the impact of flooding during the monsoon season through timely and practical interventions. Mr. Rao made it clear that all proposed works must place nature-based and eco-friendly principles at the centre of development, stressing that environmentally sensitive planning and effective flood control should go hand in hand.

Also Read:Chitrasanthe 2026: Traffic curbs announced from Windsor Manor to Shivananda Circle

Emphasising sustainable urban growth, the Chief Commissioner instructed officials to ensure that flood mitigation measures do not harm natural drainage systems or ecosystems. He underlined that development activities across the city must align with environmental priorities rather than undermine them.
Mr. Rao also asked officers to coordinate with the Tourism Department to develop city lakes as public attractions, while strictly safeguarding their ecological balance. He clearly stated that diesel or fuel-based boats will not be allowed in any lake. Only non-polluting boating options will be permitted, and these must ensure zero pollution and minimal disturbance to aquatic life.

In a further step aimed at improving lake health, Mr. Rao directed officials to study the feasibility of introducing ducks in lakes. He noted that ducks act as natural aerators, helping improve water quality through their movement and feeding habits. However, he stressed that duck rearing and maintenance must be handled responsibly.

To ensure accountability and legal compliance, the Chief Commissioner said the responsibility of maintaining ducks should be assigned through a formal tendering process. This, he added, would ensure proper care, transparency, and regulated management.