MUDA sanctions funds for rejuvenation of four lakes in Ullal taluk

Mangaluru: In a step towards water conservation, the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) has sanctioned funds for the development and rejuvenation of four lakes in Ullal taluk.

Among the projects, Rs 5 crore has been allocated for the development of a lake at Moorukatte in Kumpala, which comes under the limits of Someshwara Town Municipal Council (TMC). The lake, which was once an important source of water for the surrounding areas, has remained neglected for several years. Located in a low-lying area, it receives rainwater flowing in from three directions.

Although the Minor Irrigation Department had prepared a proposal to develop the lake at a cost of Rs 3 crore a few years ago, then local MLA UT Khader had proposed developing a walking track and park along with the lake restoration for the benefit of local residents. Accordingly, MUDA has incorporated basic public amenities and a park into its development plan.

Currently, the lake is in poor condition with weeds covering the entire area due to lack of maintenance and the accumulation of debris and waste. "We need to prevent wastewater from entering the lake. In the past, residents of nearby areas used to draw water from the lake for their plantations through rings installed inside it. As Minister UT Khader has already laid the foundation stones for three lakes, the works will commence shortly," MUDA Chairman Santhosh Kumar Shetty told DH.

Local residents said the development of the lake had been a long-pending demand, as its restoration will help protect the groundwater table in the surrounding areas.

Thavarekere at Rajagudde in Harekala village will be developed at a cost of Rs 2 crore. The lake was once an important source of water for domestic purposes and agriculture but has deteriorated over the years due to silt accumulation. Vadakere in Amblamogaru village will be developed at an estimated cost of Rs 86 lakh. The lake, which was once filled with water throughout the year, is now heavily silted.

Another lake identified for development in Ullal taluk is located at Devipura in Talapady.

Four more lakes to be developed

Shetty said four additional lakes within the authority's jurisdiction will also be developed. Aanekere, a large lake in Mulki, will be rejuvenated at a cost of Rs 4.95 crore. An amount of Rs 1.4 crore has been earmarked for the development of Kodikere in Hosabettu of the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC).

Funds have also been allocated for the development of two lakes in Jappinamogaru. While one lake will be developed at a cost of Rs 1 crore, another spread across 17 cents of land will be developed at a cost of Rs 50 lakh.

"Some of the lakes currently have water. The development works will begin after the water level recedes," Shetty said.