Corporation redefines urban infrastructure paradigm

Corporation redefines urban infrastructure paradigm
New Indian Express

BANGALORE: The Bangalore City Corporation (BCC) is attempting to resolve the conflict between development and urban ecology in its mammoth Hebbal Valley Eco-System Project, which is awaiting Government approval.

The Rs. 202-crore project proposal developed by the civic body in association with Haselfre, an eco-infrastructure consultant, shifts the paradigm of the engineering model to an integrated approach for a better eco-system.

For the first time, civic authorities like Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) and the Lake Development Authority (LDA) will be involved in the project. It not only remodels storm water drains in the valley, but will also include Hebbal lake conservation programme and a facility to recycle storm water.

But, what really make the project unique are its components of awareness and setting up of data infrastructure. The systems include aerial photography, geographic information systems, satellite imagery, thematic grid maps and geographical positioning systems.

BCC additional commissioner finance, P K Sreehari told this website’s newspaper that the project aimed at wholesome development of the valley. “The project will stop discharge of waste water into storm water drains and pollution of lakes. It also involves measures to restore urban ecology,” he said.

Project Funding: BCC has negotiated with the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC) for financial assistance and the Commissioner has sent the proposal to the urban development department for its assent.

Further, the central department of science and technology would fund the research component. The State Government will finance 45 percent of the cost and 55 percent would come from the Centre.