Sarakki Lake Encroachment Case: Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh Forms Committee, 2-Month Deadline to Submit Report
Bengaluru, Feb 25: In a significant follow-up to the Karnataka High Court’s order in the Sarakki Lake encroachment case, Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh has formally constituted a high-level committee to oversee action against alleged illegal constructions in the lake’s buffer zone.
The development comes after the High Court, while disposing of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) No. 3703/2023, directed the State Government to form a committee to ensure statutory action for clearing encroachments and protecting Sarakki Lake.
Also Read: BBMP Plan near Sarakki Lake Under Lens: Karnataka High Court Orders Crackdown on Buffer Zone Construction, Compliance Report by June 30
Committee Formed as Per Court Directions
Acting on the Court’s instructions, the State Government has constituted a committee comprising:
- Chairperson: Chief Commissioner, Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA)
- Member: Deputy Commissioner, Bengaluru Urban
- Member: Chief Executive Officer, Karnataka Tank Conservation and Development Authority
The Committee has been tasked with examining alleged violations in and around Sarakki Lake, particularly those relating to the legally mandated 30-metre buffer zone and interference with the rajakaluve (storm water drain).
Two-Month Deadline to Submit Report
As per the government order issued under the directions of the High Court, the Committee has been instructed to submit its report to the Chief Secretary within two months.
The report is expected to detail:
- Identification of unauthorized constructions
- Action initiated by statutory authorities
- Measures taken to restore and protect the lake ecosystem
- Compliance with master plan and revenue records
Background of the Case
The PIL was filed by the Sarakki Lake Area Improvement Trust, alleging that unauthorized constructions between JP Nagar 6th and 7th Phases were damaging the lake’s original structure, encroaching upon the buffer zone, and affecting drainage channels.
The High Court had directed the State to ensure action under relevant statutes and submit a compliance report through a Nodal Officer within three months.
While the Court has ordered removal of illegal constructions where necessary, it has also protected the legal rights of individuals who may be issued notices, allowing them to present their case in accordance with law.
With the formation of the committee now complete and a two-month reporting timeline in place, the focus shifts to on-ground inspections and enforcement action in the Sarakki Lake buffer zone.
Further developments are expected once the committee begins its field verification process.
Also Read: Bengaluru South City Corporation Initiates Action to Remove Encroachments Around Sarakki Lake
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