Kithaganur Lake restoration in Bengaluru boosts water storage and carbon sequestration

The 25-acre Kithaganur Lake in East Bengaluru was restored under the Wake the Lake initiative after years of sewage inflow, silt buildup, and encroachments. The project involved scientific de-silting, boundary fencing, and clearing feeder channels. The lake's water holding capacity increased by 22%, benefiting over 24,000 residents in nearby areas. The restored lake now supports nearly 65 species of flora and fauna. Environmental experts estimate the ecosystem will sequester about nine tonnes of carbon annually and improve local groundwater recharge. The project was a collaboration between Daimler Truck Innovation Center India, United Way Bengaluru, and local authorities. It was handed over to the gram panchayat on World Environment Day 2026.