Bengaluru Lakes: Artificial Lights Disrupting Crucial Bird Habitats

Extended artificial lighting at Bengaluru's Dorekere and Doddakalasandra lakes is significantly disturbing vital bird roosting spaces. Previously switched off by 7 p.m., the lights now remain on until 9 p.m. due to centrally-monitored smart meters. This change negatively impacts birds, particularly those arriving at dusk to settle for the night.

Kere Mitras, local lake custodians, and environmental NGOs report that bright lakeside spotlights disorient birds and disrupt their natural settling process. Species like Glossy Ibis and various egrets, which rely on these lakes for night roosting, are affected. The extended illumination can lead birds to abandon their traditional roosts, seeking darker areas or entirely new locations.

ActionAid's biodiversity study at Dorekere lake recorded 63 resident and 11 migratory species between July 2023 and May 2024, with up to 620 Glossy Ibis observed roosting on the island. Similarly, Doddakalasandra lake hosts numerous water-dependent and tree-dependent species. Volunteers emphasize that repeated disturbance can cause birds to permanently avoid these habitats.

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) officials state the lights are timed until 9 p.m. to prevent illegal activities and ensure public safety, as lakes are typically open until 7:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. However, conservationists argue that applying uniform timings ignores the ecological needs of lake ecosystems, especially during critical evening roosting periods.