Yelahanka to become litter-free

Yelahanka to become litter-free
Bangalore, Jan 6, DHNS:

Yelahanka will be a garbage-free zone within one month to prevent bird menace and the acute drinking water problem of the area might see a solution soon, going by the impact of the civil-military liaison conference held here on Wednesday.


The nearby Bellandur lake is also being fenced to prevent dumping of garbage in the lake.

All these promises and more were made at the customary interaction, aimed at bridging the divide between the insulated defence community and civilians to promote mutual cooperation. The fact that State Chief Secretary S V Ranganath and BBMP Commissioner Bharath Lal Meena were present made it easier for the defence personnel to get instant redressal of their grievances.

The BBMP Commissioner promised to make Yelahanka litter-free in real time and also noted that steps were on to protect Bellandur lake waters. The Chief Secretary, on his part, directed BWSSB to look into the water problem rightaway.

The Air Force officers complained that garbage dumping near the Yelahanka air base had triggered bird menace, posing a serious threat to aircraft operations. Repeated pleas to BBMP to check the menace were in vain, they rued. Bird hit was a major threat to the famous aero shows held at the base every two years as well, they noted and hoped the next show slated for 2011 would be bird-safe.

The officers also complained of acute drinking water scarcity and the BWSSB’s scant regard.

The base imparts flying training to potential Air Force pilots, besides carrying out other critical tasks, including logistic support to air headquarters and training command. As quid pro quo, the BBMP has identified 46 acres of defence land in various parts of the City for taking up development projects, including road widening, construction of parking lot (at Manekshaw Parade Ground) and residential quarters.

Ranganath said a joint committee of defence and civil officers will be set up to oversee proper implementation of the projects. The Government will place before the Defence Ministry a comprehensive proposal seeking more defence land in Bangalore.