Intro: Residents report round-the-clock machinery, poor communication, fuelling suspicions of illegal or real estate activity
BENGALURU
Heavy movement of earthmovers and trucks around Bellandur Lake over the past few days has triggered concern and speculation among residents living in the surrounding areas. The round-the-clock activity, involving JCBs, Hitachi excavators and tipper lorries, has raised questions over whether restoration work is underway or if there is a possibility of encroachment within the lake precincts.
Locals say the machinery has been operating not only during the day but also late into the night, creating constant noise and unease. Several residents claimed they were not informed about the nature of the work, leading to suspicions that illegal activity or real estate-related operations could be taking place inside the lake area.
Some residents further alleged that loud sounds resembling explosions were heard at night, fuelling fears of possible blasting. Posts and videos circulated on social media questioning the sudden activity at the lake added to the confusion and public mistrust.
However, officials have categorically denied all allegations of encroachment, blasting or any unlawful activity. Authorities clarified that the work is part of an ongoing Bellandur Lake rejuvenation project, being executed at an estimated cost of ₹179 crore under the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
According to officials, extensive desilting is currently underway to remove years of accumulated sludge from the lake bed as part of ecological restoration efforts. In addition, a 1-kilometre-long and 24-metre-wide road is being developed along the Bellandur Lake bund road. This road will connect the Ejipura Outer Ring Road with the Sarjapur Outer Ring Road and is expected to ease traffic congestion in the area.
Officials explained that the work is being carried out continuously, including night shifts, to ensure that desilting and road construction are completed before the onset of the monsoon. This, they said, accounts for the heavy machinery movement and noise at odd hours.
While authorities insist that the project is strictly focused on lake rejuvenation and infrastructure improvement, residents say they will remain vigilant. Many have emphasised that while development is necessary, any form of encroachment or misuse of lake land must be prevented and dealt with firmly.