Bengaluru Lake Crisis: No Potable Water In India's 'Silicon Valley'

Bengaluru, often referred to as India's 'Silicon Valley', is grappling with a severe water crisis as recent data from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board reveals alarming findings about the city's lakes. A comprehensive analysis conducted at 147 monitoring sites between April and November 2025 indicates that none of the examined lakes consistently provided potable or safe drinking water. This situation underscores the growing environmental challenges facing the city, which has been dealing with rapid urbanization and industrial pollution. As Bengaluru continues to attract a large population of tech professionals and migrants, the strain on its water resources has intensified. The findings raise urgent concerns regarding public health and highlight the need for effective water management strategies. Local authorities and environmentalists are now under pressure to address the deteriorating water quality and implement sustainable solutions to ensure the availability of clean drinking water for the city's residents. The ongoing crisis not only threatens the health of the population but also poses significant risks to the city’s economic stability and growth potential.