Delhi: How Bawana lake will be revamped as a picnic spot

NEW DELHI: The Delhi government will develop a picnic spot around the Sanoth lake in northwest Delhi’s Bawana. The rejuvenation of the lake and the work to convert the area into an attractive tourist destination are likely to be completed soon.
Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia on Thursday visited the lake and reviewed the progress of various projects associated with the redevelopment of the waterbody.

The Delhi government said the rejuvenation of the lake is a part of the redevelopment and beautification of 50 waterbodies, which have either lost their identity or have dried up, across the city. It will not only add to the city’s tourist destinations but will also help recharge the groundwater, said an official.

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday tweeted about the rejuvenation project: “After becoming ‘city of tirangas’, Delhi is set to become ‘city of lakes’. Soon, we will have so many beautiful lakes across Delhi. They will act as refreshing spots for local people and tourist spots for outsiders.”
Spread over six acres in Bawana, the Sannoth lake is being developed by the department of irrigation and flood control. According to officials, recycled water from a natural sewage treatment plant in Ghogha drain will be used to revive the lake.
The lake area will have several facilities, including a playground for children, a picnic garden, a walkway, a Chhath Puja ghat, and an open gym for the general public. The Delhi government is also planting saplings of various types of trees such as neem, semal, champa and babool around the lake.
“The deputy CM has directed the officials concerned to complete the work in a stipulated time and focus on the beautification of the lake by ensuring adherence to quality standards. He has also instructed the officials to make educational designs and paintings on the boundary wall of the lake,” said an official.
Sisodia said the government is also taking the help of experts to beautify the lake. “The formation of the lake will not only help in recharging the groundwater but will also create an ‘ecosystem’ in the region. The Delhi government has revived many lakes and the redevelopment of the Sannoth lake will give further impetus to this project,” he added.
“The lake will be a good place for picnic, sightseeing and sports, besides morning and evening walks. It will also serve as a sink for carbon storage and will be home to many species of plants, birds and animals,” Sisodia further stated.
The lake’s revival will also bridge the gap between the demand and supply of water for the city’s expanding population, officials said.