Amidst sewage and stalled STPs, flowers bloom in K-100

Bengaluru: Yellow and red flowers have recently bloomed amidst the sewage inflow in the K-100 canal, a testament to nature's resilience even in adverse conditions. The K-100 canal, which originates from the erstwhile Dharmambudhi Lake near Majestic, runs through densely populated areas such as KR Market, Lalbagh, Shanthinagar, Koramangala, Neelasandra, and Agara, covering a span of 9.2 kilometers. It ultimately flows toward Bellandur. According to officials, approximately 3.7 million liters of water currently flow through the canal daily.

Despite the floral blooms, the canal's persistent issues of sewage inflow and solid waste dumping remain unaddressed. "The cloth dyeing factories near the market release their sewage into the Rajakaluve," claimed KV Reddy, a field officer stationed near Bridge Number 12, close to Viveknagar. Reddy explained that the seeds of Canna flowers were sown five months ago on the instructions of senior officials, covering areas from Shanthinagar to Neelasandra. "We decided to plant Canna flowers, but unwanted shrubs have grown as well, which are currently being cleared," he added.

However, garbage continues to flow along with the water. When asked about it, Reddy expressed frustration: "The perception of an open drain encourages people to throw garbage into it. It's challenging to change this mindset." Efforts like installing grills at homes near the drains in LR Nagar are small but significant steps towards addressing the issue, he noted. Residents remain unhappy about the canal's state. "When it rains, the drain overflows into our homes! The smell is unbearable," complained a resident. Two sewage treatment plants (STPs) one near KR Market managed by BBMP and another near Shanthinagar Bus Stop managed by BWSSB are yet to become operational.

Experts have welcomed BBMP's beautification attempts but stress the need for greater public awareness. TV Ramachandra, coordinator of the Energy and Wetlands Research Group at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), said the flowers might help draw public attention. "Beautification efforts like planting wetland flowers are positive steps. However, BBMP must also raise awareness to stop waste dumping in the Rajakaluves," he stated. Ramachandra emphasized that if such initiatives are expanded to other drains, improving lake quality should be prioritized over beautification.