The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : BDA’s lake rejuvenation programme launched

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Sunday, Mar 23, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

BDA’s lake rejuvenation programme launched

Staff Reporter

Twelve water bodies have been identified under the plan

We want to create durable assets: Siddaiah
BDA to seek assistance under JNNURM

BANGALORE: The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) launched its programme to rejuvenate 12 lakes in the city, from the Rachenahalli lake on Saturday.

“We want to create durable assets by turning the lake into a beautiful spot where people can come and enjoy,” said BDA Commissioner H. Siddaiah.

The rejuvenation programme involves removal of silt, creating paths for runoff water to enter the lakes, repairing sluice gates, developing walking space along the lakes and clearing encroachments wherever found.

The water bodies transferred to the BDA by the State Government fall under the jurisdiction of the layouts developed by the authority. They are Jakkur lake, Rachenahalli lake, Venkateshapura lake and Sampigehalli lake in Arkavathy Layout; Kothnur lake in Anjanapura Layout; Talaghattapura lake, Konasandra lake and Sompura lake in Banashankari 6th Stage Layout; and Ramsandra lake, Konaghatta lake and Ullalu lake in Visvesvarayanagar Layout.

The BDA, which is in the process of preparing detailed project reports (DPRs) for the lakes, will seek assistance under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

In its budget for the coming financial year, it has earmarked Rs. 25 crore for the rejuvenation programme.

While not ruling out private sector participation in the effort, the BDA Commissioner said that it was “not a bad idea” but it remained to be seen if “private participation is possible under JNNURM.”

The lakes have only been transferred to the BDA for maintenance, but the ownership remains with the other government agencies that own it.

Rally held

At another function organised as part of World Water Day celebrations, the Save Bangalore Movement of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) on Saturday distributed leaflets and badges highlighting the importance of water. Ravi Ralph, Chief Conservator of Forests, and N.L. Narendra Babu, former MLA, were present.

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