Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar used his Independence Day address to highlight the government's plans to strengthen Bengaluru's drinking water resources, including a proposal to redevelop seven lakes across the city.
Speaking during the Independence Day celebration, Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said the government is working to increase Bengaluru's drinking water sources as the city continues to face growing demand due to rapid urbanisation and population growth.
"We are trying to increase Bengaluru's drinking water sources, planning to redevelop seven lakes." The Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said in his address.
The proposed redevelopment of seven lakes is expected to be part of broader efforts to improve Bengaluru’s water infrastructure. The city has traditionally relied on lakes and other water bodies for groundwater recharge, rainwater storage and maintaining its ecological balance. Reviving these water bodies could therefore play an important role in strengthening the city’s long-term water security.
Bengaluru’s expanding population and increasing construction activity have put considerable pressure on its existing water resources. With demand for drinking water continuing to rise, authorities have been looking at ways to develop additional sources while making better use of the city’s existing water bodies.
VIDEO | Bengaluru: “We are trying to increase Benglauru's drinking water source, planning to re-develop seven lakes”, says Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) in Independence Day speech.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 15, 2026
(Source: Third Party)
(Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p) pic.twitter.com/4wMH15JwWl
The redevelopment plans could also help improve the condition of neglected lakes and support rainwater conservation. However, the effectiveness of the initiatives will depend on proper implementation, regulation, maintenance and protection of the lakes from pollution and encroachment.
The event brought together the state's political leadership as Karnataka marked Independence Day, while the CM's speech placed Bengaluru's water requirement among the key development priorities.
As the government moves ahead with plans to expand the city’s drinking water sources, the proposed redevelopment of seven lakes could become an important step towards creating a more sustainable water system for Bengaluru.
The initiative will be closely watched by residents, particularly as the city continues to seek reliable and long-term solutions to its water needs.
