HC orders special committee to save Sarakki Lake, clear encroachments in JP Nagar buffer zone

Chief Secretary Asked to Form Panel Within Three Weeks; Action Report on Illegal Constructions to Be Submitted in Three Months

In a significant move to protect Bengaluru’s lakes, the High Court has directed the Chief Secretary of Karnataka to constitute a special committee for the protection, management, and restoration of Sarakki Lake located in JP Nagar. The court also ordered strict action to remove all encroachments in the lake’s buffer zone.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Poonacha issued the directions while disposing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Sarakki Lake Improvement Trust. The PIL, filed in 2023, sought immediate intervention to stop illegal constructions at Jagruthi Colony in Puttenahalli, located in JP Nagar 7th Phase.

The bench instructed that the committee must include representatives from the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru Urban district, the Tank Development Authority, and other relevant stakeholders. To ensure smooth coordination, the court also directed that a nodal officer be appointed from among the committee members.

Also Read:Another NICE Road stretch to open soon: Big relief for Bengaluru commuters

The High Court made it clear that a government order constituting the committee must be issued within three weeks. Once formed, the panel will oversee actions by statutory authorities to identify unauthorised constructions in the buffer zone, issue legal notices to violators, and initiate steps under relevant laws to clear encroachments and protect the lake.

The committee has been entrusted with monitoring all measures aimed at preserving Sarakki Lake, including preventing further illegal construction and safeguarding the lake’s ecological balance. The nodal officer will be responsible for coordinating the activities and reporting progress.

The court further directed that the committee must submit a detailed action taken report within three months. The report should clearly outline steps taken to remove unauthorised structures, enforce legal provisions, and implement conservation measures.

Also Read:₹90 crore naming deal: Namma Metro signs landmark 30-year agreement with Prestige Group

The PIL highlighted concerns over unchecked construction activities in the buffer zone, which pose a serious threat to the lake’s health and long-term sustainability.