Extended artificial lighting at Bengaluru's Dorekere and Doddakalasandra lakes is disrupting the natural circadian rhythms of hundreds of resident and migratory birds. Environmentalists warn that treating ecological zones like urban parks is pushing biodiversity to the outskirts.
- Artificial lights now stay on until 9 p.m. due to CCMS smart meters, compared to 7 p.m. previously.
- Dorekere and Doddakalasandra lakes are critical shelters for dozens of resident and migratory bird species.
- Bright spotlights confuse birds that rely on darkness as a cue to roost, potentially forcing them to abandon the habitat.
The delicate balance of Bengaluru's urban ecosystems is under threat as a shift in lighting schedules at key water bodies is driving away avian populations. At Dorekere and Doddakalasandra lakes, the installation of centrally-monitored lighting through CCMS smart meters has extended the duration of artificial light until 9 p.m., far beyond the previous 7 p.m. cutoff. This change has sparked alarm among Kere Mitras (lake protectors) and environmental NGOs.
Birds utilize the onset of darkness as a critical biological cue to settle down for the night. The current high-intensity spotlights blind and confuse birds arriving at dusk, making the lakes less attractive as roosts. Volunteers report that when lights fall directly on islands or roosting trees, birds remain hyper-active or are forced to seek darker, less secure locations, effectively displacing them from their natural homes.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this conflict highlights a fundamental disconnect between urban administrative goals and ecological preservation. While the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) prioritizes human security and the prevention of illegal activities, they are applying a "one-size-fits-all" urban lighting model to a sensitive biological zone. The failure to differentiate between a public park and a biodiversity hotspot can lead to permanent habitat loss.
The ecological stakes are high. A biodiversity study conducted by ActionAid in collaboration with the Australian Consulate General recorded 63 resident and 11 migratory species at Dorekere lake. Specifically, the Glossy Ibis, Cattle Egret, and Black-headed Ibis rely on the lake's island for roosting during non-breeding seasons, with Glossy Ibis numbers peaking at 620 birds in mid-October.
"If you continue to disturb the roosting patterns, birds will stop considering these lakes as a home and will be pushed further to the outskirts of the city."
At Doddakalasandra lake, the situation is similarly precarious. A recent survey recorded 46 bird species in a single day. Experts warn that the impact is not merely a change in tree preference; repeated disturbance alters the entire habitat usage pattern, making the city inhospitable for migratory birds visiting between October and March.
| Feature | Previous Lighting Schedule | Current Smart Lighting (CCMS) |
|---|---|---|
| Cut-off Time | 7:00 PM | 9:00 PM |
| Primary Goal | Basic Visibility | Security & Illegal Activity Prevention |
| Ecological Impact | Low / Natural Transition | High / Disrupts Roosting Cues |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are the lights being kept on until 9 p.m.?
A: The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) states that auto-timers are set to 9 p.m. to ensure public safety and prevent illegal activities in the lake areas.
Q: Which bird species are most affected at Dorekere Lake?
A: The Glossy Ibis, Cattle Egret, and Black-headed Ibis are among the primary species that use the lake's island for roosting.
