Jawans turn green warriors, clean up Ulsoor lake in Bengaluru

On Wednesday morning, around 1,000 soldiers from the Madras sappers ventured into Ulsoor lake and cleaned it up. The lake which is located at the heart of the city has been devastated by garbage dumping. In the last few weeks, the lake has been filled with weeds and water hyacinths.

The jawans faced several challenges as they ventured to carry out the cleanup drive. Soldiers went on boats and stepped into the slimy waters bearing the stench. They removed weeds, water hyacinths and other plastic waste that was thrown in the lake.

Reports said that in recent years Ulsoor lake has been affected adversely by the growth of weeds and water hyacinths. Weeds choke the water and also lead to the depletion of fish breeding grounds. They're equally harmful for humans as well. Experts said that common weeds such as parthenium weed, ragweed, ryegrass and rivet can cause asthma and other respiratory problems, especially in children. It is also said that some weeds can also cause skin irritation and some are even poisonous.

A press release from the Press Information Bureau (Defence Wing) said, "The people should understand that it is not the business of Army to become garbage cleaners, but they believe in their motto “The safety, honour and welfare of the country comes first, always and every time. The honour, safety and welfare of the men you command comes next. Your own ease, comfort and safety, come last, always and every time.”

Bengaluru's Ulsoor lake has survived through challenging times and is one of last remaining lakes in the city. The urban sprawl in Bengaluru has led to the destruction of many lakes and gardens, much of which has been encroached by the real estate mafia.

Residents complain that authorities like Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Lake Development Authority (LDA) and Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) have neglected their complaints. It's high time that they wake up and take a leaf from our brave jawans who have proved that they can contribute not just in protecting the nation's frontiers but also protect its resources as well.