Mantri adopts Mahadevapura lake

Mantri adopts Mahadevapura lake
Deccan Herald

Mahadevapura lake, a 30-acre rain water body on the outer ring road has been saved from becoming a part of the ‘vanishing lake species’ of Bangalore by the timely intervention of Mr Sushil Manti, MD, Mantri Developers. Lakes Development Authority (LDA) has given permission to Mantri Developers for the development of this lake for five years. This endeavour by Mantri Developers is the first public private participation for lake development by a property developer.

This water body has become polluted due to urban vandalism and uncertain monsoons. It has also developed into a favourable site for dumping garbage and sewage. Contamination due to sewage and other wastes have converted the lake into a mosquito breeding ground and stinking tanks.

Mantri Developers and Lakes Development Authority of Bangalore have joined hands to save this lake from destruction. Mantri Developers will be investing approximately Rs 2 crore for the complete revamping of the lake, which will include improvements in the surroundings of the lake.

Water bodies form the features and define the landscapes of cities. These water bodies generally known as lakes are the important components of ecology and environment of the life of cities. Bangalore in this respect stood at a great advantage and enjoyed the unique environmental status with its more than 270 or so lakes.

LDA had announced its “Adopt a Lake Scheme” last year with the objective to involve people in lake conservation, restoration and maintenance in an effort to build public-private partnership. Mantri Developers will take all steps to ensure that the lake is well maintained and no encroachment takes place. The process of adopting a lake however takes a few months.

A detailed project report has to be submitted to LDA, delineating the plan and works to be carried out and investment expected for the project. Once this is approved, a technical presentation is made to the technical sub-committee. The entire cost of maintenance as per the approved plan has to be borne by the adopting agency. The government and LDA will closely monitor and inspect the upkeep of the lake during the adoption period.