The Lake Development Authority, on Tuesday, was restricted by the High Court of Karnataka, from getting into new agreements with the private parties for the development of lakes.

The government was also given two week's time by the court, so that necessary steps for maintaining of lakes and gardens in the city could be taken. Furthermore, the court instructed the govt. to put on a hold on commercial activities in order to safeguard the ecology and environment.

The public concern order was passed by a division bench headed by Chief Justice P D Dinakaran following hearing a petition by Environment Support Group, headed by Leo Saldana and others.

Even the private parties were ordered by the court to abstain from developing the lakes in order to avoid more complications. A proposal for the conservation of lakes was also asked to be submitted by the state government.

The court expressed its concerns regarding the city lakes, which are being converted into garbage dumps due to diversion of drain water. The court believes that it has occurred due to the negligence of the government and the Lake Development Authority. The state budget and the allocation for the conservation of lakes were also enquired by the division bench.

The court said, "The government officers are selling their knowledge to the private persons. This is not fair. The court will not sit as a silent spectator."

It was observed by the court during the hearing, "Bangalore has been known as the lake city and it's not. If the same situation continuous, the original Bangalore citizen will become alienated from the city. After one year, you may also fix entry fee for Lalbagh and Cubbon Parks also."