No dearth of grand plans

No dearth of grand plans
Bengaluru,







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BBMP and BDA have taken up the revitalisation of 29 lakes in the city, to make them eco-friendly and people-friendly. BBMP will tackle 17 lakes at a cost of Rs 190 crores and BDA will breathe new life into 12 lakes at a cost of Rs 90 crores.

The Detailed Project Report has been approved by Lake Development Authority at the state level and it is awaiting final approval of the Centre for the release of JNNURM funds. BBMP chief engineer Sathish, who is in charge of the project, said the Palike was not waiting for funds and has started preparatory work like fencing off the lakes to prevent encroachment, as well as cleaning and preventing the dumping of debris and most important, diverting sewers away from lakes.

BWSSB Minister Katta Subramanya Naidu recently said all the lake areas will be measured, bunds will be fortified and provision for sewage treatment and rain water harvesting in the tank area will be made. There are plans to convert these lakes into tourist spots, he said.

Although the work will be undertaken by the BDA and BBMP, he said, the BWSSB will have the power to make use of the water in these lakes. BWSSB plans to develop 15 lakes under Integrated Water Management Scheme, he added.

According to a BWSSB official, if harnessed effectively, the existing lakes are enough to meet the water needs of the city. “Consumption of water from these lakes goes through a natural cycle and water is available throughout the year at varying purity levels. Once we get the right technology to purify lake water, the consumer will no longer be deprived,” the official said.