India: Toxic foam from Bengaluru lake following heavy rain

Event

The city of Bengaluru was particularly hard-hit by torrential rain over the weekend May 27-28, causing subsequent traffic disruptions and public health risks. Varthur Lake foamed up with the rain and toxic foam spilled out onto the roads on Tuesday, May 30. The wire mesh built around the lake to prevent the foam from being carried by the wind did not stop it from enveloping nearby areas, causing health problems and a strong odor. Respiratory infections have been widely reported at local hospitals.

Context

Varthur Lake, along with Bellandur Lake, poses a major health hazard due to its toxic foam, composed of a mixture of rain, ammonia, and phosphate. The wall built around Bellandur Lake collapsed during flash flooding in 2016, allowing toxic substances to seep into the water; Varthur is also highly polluted. In February 2016, the Bellandur Lake caught fire and it took nearly four hours to put it out.

Advice

Individuals present in Bengaluru are advised to avoid the vicinity of the lake.