New Delhi: As Bengaluru grapples with recurring floods and waterlogging, environment expert Vimlendu Jha has emphasized the urgent need for de-urbanisation to protect the city’s natural ecosystem and mitigate climate impacts. In a conversation with ANI on Wednesday, Jha pointed out that unplanned urban expansion has encroached on lakes and wetlands, leading to frequent inundations in the IT capital of India.
“This year, Bengaluru experienced flooding due to construction over lakes and wetlands that previously absorbed excess water. To secure its future, the city must de-urbanise and restore its green cover and wetlands. We cannot create a city that serves only human needs while neglecting its ecosystem. De-urbanisation is the only sustainable way forward for cities like Bengaluru to survive in the era of climate change,” Jha remarked.
Loss of Wetlands and Bad Urban Planning
Jha highlighted that rapid and unplanned urban growth has severely compromised Bengaluru’s natural infrastructure. “Bengaluru has seen a 1,000% rise in its urban population, while 60-70% of its wetlands and green spaces have been lost. The city, once known for its lakes and natural water filtration systems, is now struggling due to poor urban planning,” he noted.
The expert attributed frequent floods and traffic disruptions to both high-intensity rainfall caused by climate change and the degradation of the city’s ecosystem. “Heavy rains now result in severe waterlogging, bringing life in the city to a standstill. Ignoring the city’s natural infrastructure will only make things worse.”
Political Criticism and Governance Concerns
Adding to the growing concern over Bengaluru’s flood situation, former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy criticized the state government for its poor handling of the crisis. Speaking on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy compared the waterlogged streets of Bengaluru to Venice, sarcastically remarking, “The Congress government has turned Bengaluru into an Indian Venice. Many residents are forced to stay in hotels, and farmers have lost their crops to floods.”
Kumaraswamy pointed out the stark irony of past efforts to transform Bengaluru into a global hub like Singapore, stating, “Brand Bengaluru is now associated with floods and waterlogged streets, a far cry from the city’s earlier aspirations.”
A Call for Sustainable Planning
The calls for de-urbanisation and ecological restoration reflect growing awareness about the need for sustainable urban development. Experts warn that unless Bengaluru prioritizes green spaces, wetlands, and better water management, the city will continue to face climate-induced challenges that disrupt lives and livelihoods.
