Sewage, garbage choke Bengaluru storm-water drains

Bengaluru, 

Bengaluru’s historic storm-water drains, or rajakaluves, have long been a critical component of the city’s flood mitigation network. However, rapid urbanisation and poor maintenance practices have left many of these waterways vulnerable and less effective in managing heavy rainfall. During a brief inspection of several drains, News Trail found that sewage discharge and the accumulation of garbage – particularly plastic waste – remain major concerns.

Residents also pointed out that the carrying capacity of the drains reduces significantly during periods of intense rainfall, increasing the likelihood of overflows and flooding. “About 30 per cent of the rajakaluves have been compromised by sewage and another 20 per cent by garbage. Yet, through out the history of these drains, the Storm-water Drain Department has not issued even a single notice to BBMP, BSWML or BWSSB questioning why sewage and waste are being allowed into storm water channels,” said Dr Ram Prasad, co-founder of Friends of Lakes.

Dr Prasad expressed concern over what he described as inadequate maintenance of the drains. He also alleged that funds received from the World Bank for flood mitigation projects were being utilised without sufficient participation or consent from citizens, whom he described as the primary stakeholders. One such World Bank funded project is under way at Madiwala Lake and Silk Board Junction. At Silk Board, the storm-water drain is being widened to accommodate greater in flow and reduce the recurring flooding that affects the junction.

However, despite the onset of the monsoon, the work remains incomplete. Dr Prasad also pointed to flooding in Shanthinagar even after the completion of the K100 project, questioning the effectiveness of such initiatives when the underlying issues of sewage inflow and garbage accumulation remain unresolved. Shreya Ramkumar, who has been involved in the rejuvenation of Uppareddy Kere, echoed these concerns and stressed the need for urgent intervention.

“There is a lot of garbage and sewage in the rajakaluves. We need to work with the government to revive them. With the monsoon here, the drains must be cleaned so that water can flow freely into the lakes. Many lakes are also facing encroachment, and the authorities must act against illegal constructions,” she said. While residents have questioned the preparedness of the storm-water drainage network, Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officials maintain that extensive pre-monsoon work is under way.

At the K100 drain, officials said desilting operations have been carried out over the past week and weeds obstructing water flow have been removed. “The rajakaluves are being desilted and cleared of garbage. We have identified additional locations where waste needs to be removed. When the rains intensify, the drains will be able to carry the water. We have been preparing for the monsoon,” said Lokesh, Chief Engineer, East City Corporation.