BELLANDUR LAKE FROTH - Debasish Ghosh

Bangalore, India, was once known for its interconnected lake systems, which provided a reliable water source. As the city grew, these lakes have encroached, and the water became polluted day by day. The largest, Bellandur Lake, now carry huge volumes of snowy froth, which block the adjacent canals.

This froth, which would otherwise be a sight to behold, stinks, and skin contact causes irritation. The mass of lather in the lake rises so high that it lands on the roads and inconveniences those traveling on two-wheelers. This is a major concern with many such lakes in Bangalore, which are getting polluted with harmful chemicals like nitrates, potassium, sulfates, etc. Although the residents have raised their concerns, bare minimum measures have been taken. This issue continues even today whenever there are heavy rains. Although nets have been provided to stop the foam from flying around, still the intoxicating smell remains to this day.

Many lakes in Bengaluru, such as Kaikondrahalli, Kasavanahalli, and Kalkere lakes, have foamed before. But the quantity of Foam in Varthur and Bellandur lakes are alarmingly high. Apart from sewage, industrial effluents and solid waste are also dumped into these lakes. In some circumstances, this can cause the formation of Foam.