Privatization of lakes: HC seeks forest dept’s reply

Privatization of lakes: HC seeks forest dept’s reply
TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Bangalore: The high court on Wednesday directed the principal chief conservator of forests and deputy conservator of forests, Bangalore Urban, to file a counter-affidavit stating the factual position vis-vis allegations made in a PIL regarding alleged privatization of three city lakes.
A division Bench headed by Chief Justice Cyriac Joseph posted hearing of the petition to June 12. The PIL was filed by Robert John Chandran and Leo Saldana of the Environmental Support Group, challenging privatization of Hebbal, Nagawara and Agaram lakes.
The petitioners have contended that the Lake Development Authority, constituted to look after these water-bodies, exceeded its jurisdiction in leasing Agaram, Hebbal and Nagawara lakes to private enterprises for commercial exploitation by way of amusement parks and floating restaurants within the lake area.
Panel suggests fencing of tanks
A panel of experts headed by environmentalist A N Yellappa Reddy, who is also a member of Lok Adalat conducted by the high court, has suggested fencing and clearing of encroachments in and around 7 tanks/lakes in North Bangalore region.
The committee, after receipt of a complaint in respect of Doddabommasandra lake, conducted an inspection on May 29. The committee in its inspection report also recommended de-silting and diversion of sewage and stopping illegal sand-mining in the tankbed area.
The panel inspected Doddabommasandra, Bagalgunte, Chikkabanavara, Abbigere, Kammagondanahalli, Thindlu and Narasipura lakes and has submitted a status report to Karnataka Legal Services Authority for further action.