Bengaluru's iconic Sankey Tank, a historic man-made lake, is rapidly drying up, sparking concerns among residents and environmental experts. The water body, once a vibrant hub for birdwatchers and joggers, now shows vast stretches of dry bed, with only a small pool of water remaining in the center.
Reasons Behind the Drying Up
Experts attribute the depletion to multiple factors. The primary cause is the insufficient rainfall in recent years, which has reduced the inflow of water. Additionally, encroachments in the catchment area have disrupted the natural drainage system. Poor maintenance and silt accumulation have further diminished the tank's capacity to hold water.
Encroachments and Urbanization
Rapid urbanization around the tank has led to the construction of buildings and roads that block the natural flow of rainwater into the lake. The once lush green surroundings are now replaced by concrete structures, exacerbating the problem. Residents have also reported illegal dumping of waste, which contaminates the water and accelerates the drying process.
Lack of Maintenance
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), responsible for the tank's upkeep, has been criticized for neglecting regular desilting and cleaning operations. The silt buildup over the years has reduced the tank's depth, making it more susceptible to evaporation. Experts suggest that regular maintenance could have prevented the current crisis.
Impact on Biodiversity
The drying of Sankey Tank is not just an aesthetic loss but also a blow to local biodiversity. The lake has been a habitat for several species of migratory birds, including pelicans, storks, and herons. With the water level dropping, bird sightings have become rare. The surrounding vegetation, which supports insects and small animals, is also under threat.
Community Response
Residents have formed groups to raise awareness and pressure authorities to take action. They have organized clean-up drives and petitioned the BDA for immediate desilting. Some have even suggested involving the Indian Institute of Science to study the tank's ecology and propose restoration measures.
Call for Urgent Action
Environmentalists warn that if no action is taken, Sankey Tank could become completely dry within the next few years. They urge the government to declare the tank a protected water body and allocate funds for its restoration. The BDA has assured that desilting work will begin soon, but residents remain skeptical, citing past delays.
The plight of Sankey Tank is a microcosm of Bengaluru's larger water crisis. With rapid urbanization and climate change, the city's lakes are under immense stress. The fate of Sankey Tank could serve as a wake-up call for better urban planning and water conservation.
