Controversy over treated water from Hebbal-Nagawara valley project

Bengaluru: What was once hailed as a solution to Bengaluru’s water shortage has now become a source of concern for neighbouring districts. The treated water discharged from the Hebbal-Nagawara Valley (HN Valley) project has raised alarms among local residents, farmers, and environmental advocates, leading District Minister Dr. M C Sudhakar to order a detailed investigation and water quality analysis.

Numerous complaints have surfaced from villagers living near the HN Valley water channels and reservoirs. These include a decline in milk production from cattle, a surge in skin infections, and a noticeable drop in fish populations in nearby lakes. Some community members have even associated the water with reproductive issues and disruptions to agricultural routines.

Although officials claim that routine water testing is performed, local inhabitants remain skeptical. Many believe that the water from HN Valley, intended mainly to recharge underground aquifers, is unsuitable for livestock. Evidence of this includes livestock avoiding the water sources and roadside canals that remain largely untouched by animals, heightening suspicion about its safety. Further concerns stem from open borewells dug near lakes within the valley region. Residents worry that contaminated water could be leaching into underground sources, potentially impacting both drinking water and irrigation supplies.

Dr. Sudhakar stressed the necessity of addressing every complaint with utmost seriousness. “Ignoring these issues is not an option. Authorities must thoroughly investigate each case and implement necessary corrective measures. If neglected, accountability will be assigned,” he stated.

MLA B.N Ravikumar of Shidlaghatta described the HN Valley project as a “catastrophe” for the area. He cautioned that the situation could deteriorate further unless water from the Ettinahole project is released promptly, as multiple regions within his constituency are already suffering serious consequences.

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