Bill to Reduce Buffer Zones for Smaller Lakes Passed Despite Opposition Walkout

Quick Summary

• The Karnataka Legislative Council passed the Karnataka tank Conservation and Development Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025, amidst an Opposition walkout.
• The Bill proposes reducing buffer zones for smaller water bodies based on lake area instead of maintaining a uniform 30-metre buffer zone for all lakes.
• Certain public works like roads,bridges,parks,and pipelines may be allowed in buffer zones with prior approval but commercial and industrial activities remain prohibited.
• Committees with local residents will be formed to protect lakes as part of the amendments.
• Opposition accused the government of rushing the Bill under pressure from real estate interests. BJP members labeled it “unscientific” regarding lake conservation in urban areas like Bengaluru.
• Several other Bills were also passed by the Council, including those related to gig workers’ welfare and medical regulations.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The passage of the Karnataka Tank Conservation and development Authority (Amendment) Bill highlights a clash between land-use adaptability and ecological conservation. While proponents argue that reducing buffer zones solves practical issues in heavily populated districts such as Mangaluru and Udupi, critics warn this could accelerate encroachment on vulnerable water bodies-an issue repeatedly documented in reports about Bengaluru’s urban planning challenges.

The decision not to refer the Bill to a Joint House Committee has fueled concerns about insufficient deliberation over its long-term impact.Buffer zone reduction raises questions about balancing developmental pressures against environmental integrity.Forming resident-based committees offers participatory governance but might need stronger institutional frameworks for effective implementation.

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