Karnataka Governor Returns Bill to Reduce Buffer Zones Around Lakes and Ponds, Seeking Clarification

Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot has sent back to the government a bill proposing to reduce the buffer zones around lakes and ponds in the state. The Governor has also sought clarification from the state government regarding the bill. The Governor stated that it is essential to ascertain the actual impact of the proposed amendments. Furthermore, a Karnataka association has expressed concerns that such a move could upset the ecological balance. The Karnataka Tank Conservation and Development Authority (Amendment) Bill was recently passed by both houses of the state legislature. This bill proposed to reduce the buffer zones of lakes and ponds based on their area.