EVALUATION OF WATER QUALITY AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR VARTHUR LAKE, BENGALURU

Abstract

Ecosystems are integral to life on Earth, and lakes play a pivotal role within them. Historically, lakes have served as vital resources for domestic and cultural activities. Varthur Lake, the second- largest lake in Bangalore, is a prime example of a waterbody under significant stress due to rapid urbanization. The development of industries, commercial complexes, residential areas, and apartments has encroached upon the lake's area, compromising its ecological integrity. The environmental degradation of Varthur Lake has been exacerbated by abrupt climatic changes, such as droughts and flash floods, coupled with the unchecked release of wastewater into its ecosystem. These factors have significantly deteriorated the lake's ecological health. To address this issue, water quality management has become essential, utilizing standardized tests to measure parameters such as biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), pH, hardness, total solids, and dissolved oxygen. Alarmingly high levels of contamination have been recorded in surface and groundwater samples across the study area. Comparative analyses of water quality against World Health Organization (WHO) standards reveal that many samples fall below acceptable levels, highlighting the need for urgent intervention. The study emphasizes the importance of sustainable infrastructure development to mitigate waste dumping and the discharge of solid and liquid waste into the lake. Innovative approaches, such as the implementation of membrane bioreactors (MBRs), are proposed as viable solutions for sewage treatment. MBR technology integrates biological processes with permeable and semi-permeable membranes, effectively addressing wastewater management challenges in the study area. Furthermore, strategies for lake rejuvenation and recharge structures are critical for ensuring the sustainable and efficient utilization of lakes while preventing further degradation. These measures aim to restore Varthur Lake as a resilient ecological asset for the community.