Karnataka governor holds back lake buffer zone Bill

Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot has sent back a recently passed bill that seeks to reduce the buffer zones around lakes and tanks in the state, asking the government for clarifications. The bill, known as the Karnataka Tank Conservation and Development Authority (Amendment) Bill, proposes buffer zones based on the size of the water bodies, allowing certain public utility constructions like roads, bridges, water pipelines, sewage lines, and treatment plants with prior approval.

Under the proposed law, very small lakes would have little or no buffer zones. Lakes up to 0.5 gunta would have none, lakes up to one acre would have 3 metres, 1-10 acres would have 6 metres, 10-25 acres would have 12 metres, 25-100 acres would have 24 metres, and lakes over 100 acres would retain a 30-metre buffer. Currently, all lakes have a uniform 30-metre buffer zone where construction is not allowed.

The Governor’s decision came after receiving objections, particularly from the Bengaluru Town Hall Association. The association pointed out that experts already believe the current 30-metre buffer is too small, suggesting nearly 300 metres may be needed to maintain ecosystem balance. They argued that reducing buffer zones could harm citizens’ right to water security and a healthy environment. They also noted that the government had not consulted expert committees or the public before proposing the amendment.

In his communication, Governor Gehlot emphasized the need for the state government to clarify whether the bill could have any adverse effects. He asked the government to resubmit the file with proper explanations regarding the concerns raised, including possible constitutional violations, central laws, and the impact on water security.

The move highlights the growing concerns over lake conservation and the importance of balancing urban development with environmental protection, ensuring citizens’ access to water and a sustainable ecosystem.