Expert Committee to Drive Arkavathi River Rejuvenation: BWSSBChairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar

Bengaluru Express
Bengaluru, June 10 : A bold new chapter is set to unfold for the once life-giving Arkavathi River—the primary source of drinking water for Bengaluru between 1936 and 2000 via the Tippagondanahalli reservoir.
Under the direction of Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, a high-level committee of experts will be constituted to spearhead the river’s rejuvenation through an innovative public-private partnership (PPP) model.
This decisive step was announced at a meeting held today at the BWSSB headquarters, chaired by Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, Chairman of the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board. Stretching 53 kilometers from Nandi Hills to T.G. Halli, and covering a basin area of 1,400 sq. km, the Arkavathi holds immense potential to be reborn as a sustainable lifeline.
Dr. Manohar highlighted that , water from Ettinahole was intended to mix with Arkavathi waters at T.G. Halli. However, rapid industrial growth, wastewater discharge, and environmental degradation rendered the reservoir’s water unfit for consumption. Recognizing this, the Deputy CM has envisioned a long-term strategy to revive the river and secure a stable water future for Bengaluru.
Several government agencies, NGOs, and civic bodies are coming together to shape a comprehensive action plan. IDECK has already begun an integrated study covering areas like Hesaraghatta, Madanayakanahalli, and parts of BBMP, laying the groundwork for rejuvenation.
Dr. Manohar emphasized that although only 15% of the Arkavathi’s river basin falls under BWSSB’s jurisdiction, collaboration will be key. A multi-disciplinary expert committee will soon be formed, incorporating insights from voluntary organizations, academic institutions, and civic stakeholders, to drive the mission forward.
The meeting was attended by top officials from BBMP, BDA, DMA, KIADB, KSPCB, RDWSD, KUWS&DB, and representatives from Art of Living, Biome Trust, scientists from the Indian Institute of Science, and many others invested in water resilience.