GBA to launch major crackdown on lake encroachments in Bengaluru; JCB action imminent

Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao orders strict eviction drive across five city corporations after surveys reveal large-scale encroachment of lake land.

The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has initiated a strong crackdown against lake encroachments across Bengaluru, signalling tough action against those who have illegally occupied lake land. The move comes after surveys revealed that a majority of the city’s lakes have been encroached upon.

GBA Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao has issued clear instructions to remove all encroachments without any leniency. He has directed commissioners of five city municipal corporations to immediately begin disciplinary and eviction action against encroachers. These directions were issued after a review meeting with senior civic officials, where the findings of recent surveys were discussed.

Officials have already completed surveys and marking of encroached lake land across the city. Based on this exercise, detailed reports identifying illegally occupied areas have been submitted. Acting on these reports, the Chief Commissioner has ordered immediate clearance operations, warning that violators will face strict consequences.

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According to official data, Bengaluru has a total of 210 lakes within its jurisdiction. Of these,

•    167 lakes are under BBMP control,
•    33 lakes are managed by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA),
•    5 lakes fall under the Forest Department,
•    4 lakes are under the Lake Development Authority, and
•    1 lake is under Namma Metro.

The survey and marking exercise has exposed widespread encroachment across lakes managed by multiple agencies. Officials have identified illegal constructions and occupations on lake beds and buffer zones, raising serious concerns over water conservation and urban flooding.

Following the Chief Commissioner’s directive, large-scale eviction drives are expected to begin shortly, with JCB machines set to be deployed across the city. Authorities have made it clear that all illegal structures on lake land will be removed, irrespective of their size or influence.

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The GBA has stated that this operation is aimed at protecting Bengaluru’s water bodies and restoring their original boundaries. Civic officials have been instructed to act swiftly and submit regular progress reports as the eviction drive moves forward.