Lake rejuvenation project awaiting administrative nod

With the project to rejuvenate the wells and lakes in Cubbon Park stuck in administrative red tape, the Horticulture Department will have to continue paying hefty water bills to maintain the 195-acre expanse till at least the end of the year.

But an initiative by Friends of Lakes (FoL), India Cares Foundation and Biome promises to reduce the department’s dependence on water suppliers.

The first phase, which involves connecting seven wells in Cubbon Park, has been completed. The second, which includes desilting the two lakes, creating trenches and constructing recharge wells, is yet to be taken up. The groups are waiting for a nod from the department to restart work.

“We were expecting to complete the project before the monsoon this year, but the elections put a stop to our plans. We have written to the Horticulture Department seeking permission for the second phase of the project,” said Ramprasad of FoL.

Seven wells rejuvenated

As part of the first phase, all the seven wells in the park have been rejuvenated, and underground electrical lining for the motors has been completed. All the wells have been connected to a central sump, from where water can be utilised for the park. According to Ramprasad, the wells, which are functional now, will be able to provide anywhere from 65,000 to 85,000 litres of water per day.

Cubbon Park officials, however, say the need is much higher. “The water from the wells only caters to 20% of the park’s requirements. Around 1.5 million litres per day (MLD) is required during summer. We are buying it from BWSSB for ₹20/kilolitre. Only after the project is completed can we comment on savings in the water bill,” said Mahentesh Murgod, Deputy Director, Cubbon Park.

PhaseII will see desilting of the two lakes, and construction of 50 recharge wells to augment shallow aquifers. “This will ensure that the lakes don’t dry up. We can recharge wells within 10 days of starting work. Following which, lake desiliting and creation of trenches to direct the run-off water to the lakes will be taken up. We are hoping to finish the project by December,” Mr. Prasad added.

On permission for phase 2, Mr. Murgod said, “The request has been sent to higher-ups in the department. They have to give the go-ahead.”