Governor clears revised lake buffer rules: New distances notified, key infrastructure allowed

After months of delay, the Karnataka Governor approves amendments to the Lake Conservation and Development Authority Act, introducing size-based buffer zones and easing restrictions on essential public infrastructure.

In a major regulatory change, the Karnataka Governor has approved amendments to the Lake Conservation and Development Authority Act, paving the way for revised buffer zone norms around lakes across the state. The decision clears a legal and administrative deadlock that began in August last year.

In August 2025, the state government had notified new rules reducing the buffer zone around lakes based on their size. However, the Governor had sought clarifications twice and kept the amendment pending. With the latest approval, the revised law now comes into force.

Under the amended rules, buffer zones will no longer follow a uniform standard. Instead, the distance will vary depending on the area of the lake. This marks a significant departure from the earlier system, where all lakes were mandated to maintain a 30-metre buffer zone, irrespective of their size.

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As per the revised guidelines, lakes measuring up to 5 guntas will not require any buffer zone. Lakes between 5 guntas and 1 acre will have a 3-metre buffer. Those between 1 and 10 acres will need a 6-metre buffer, while lakes ranging from 10 to 25 acres will have a 12-metre buffer. For lakes sized between 25 and 100 acres, the buffer zone will be 24 metres, and lakes larger than 100 acres will continue to maintain a 30-metre buffer.

The amendment also clearly defines permitted and restricted activities within these zones. Commercial developments, including business establishments and entertainment-related activities, remain strictly prohibited. However, essential public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water supply pipelines, and sewage treatment plants (STPs) will now be allowed within the revised buffer areas.

Officials say the change aims to strike a balance between lake protection and urban development needs, especially in rapidly growing cities where infrastructure expansion is critical.