Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, May 23: Several major ponds in Mangaluru are undergoing rejuvenation as part of projects led by MUDA and the Mangaluru Smart City initiative. Close to 15 such ponds are slated for rejuvenation, with significant investments involved.

Projects such as Gujjarakere near Bolar, Bairady at Padil, and the Kavoor pond have been developed under these initiatives. However, concerns have arisen over the lack of proper maintenance, drawing criticism from locals and environmentalists.

Despite investments amounting to crores of rupees, ponds like Bairady, developed at a cost of Rs 3.30 crore, and Kavoor lake, costing Rs 8.5 crore under the Smart City project, have not been adequately maintained. Plastic bottles and waste have polluted the water in these ponds, leading to unsightly surroundings.

Locals have expressed disappointment, particularly regarding the condition of Bairady pond. Despite community efforts to clean it up in the past, the situation has worsened, with overgrown bushes, debris accumulation, and neglected children's play areas.

Similar issues plague the Kavoor pond, where water levels have decreased in some areas while pollution levels have risen in others. Residents allege that wastewater is being directed into the Kavoor pond, exacerbating the situation.