Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Apr 3: Comprehensive developmental work of Gujjarakere pond in the city is in full swing. The vicinity of the pond has already got a new look.

Work of underground drainage is over. Officials say that the pollutants that were getting flown into the pond from the pit and unscientific old drainages has stopped. However, the recent report given by the fisheries college experts states that the water of the pond is still not free of pollutants and not fit for drinking. The experts are of the opinion that though the pond is cleaner than before, water is not potable still.

Gujjarakere pond

After removing the other connections of pond water, some fishes of a particular breed are grown in water in order to clean it. The work of further cleaning will be done through oxidation pond technology. This is a continuous process according to an official of the technology department.

The water of the pond will be splashed upwards like a fountain in the oxidation pond technology. Water will suck the oxygen from the environment and clean itself in this process. The work of development of pond is going on at a cost of Rs 4 crore. Already 50% of the proposed work is complete. Though the work of removal of silt is done, silt is still present on the sides, in addition to liquor bottles and other soft drinks. Officials say that during the removal of silt from the pond, it is not possible to remove the silt at the edges.

If the work related to the development of the pond progresses as per the officials of the Smart City project, by next May the work should be complete. Work of enclosing wall, steel railings, footpath, cycling track and table have to be completed. Steps around the pond are repaired and the clean environment and trees give pleasure to the eyes of the visitors.

Nemu Kottari, Gujjarakere Theertha Samrakshana Vedike said, "People representatives are taking lots of interest in the development of Gujjarakere pond. This pond is an asset for this city. Spiritually this pond is famous as the bathing pond of Goddess Mangalambe. Developmental work has reached a satisfactory level. Many works with regards to the cleaning of pond water need to be done."

Premananda Shetty, mayor of MCC said, "The developmental work of Gujjarakere under the Smart City project is progressing at a good pace. The work of removing of silt and underground drainage is complete. In future, Gujjarakere will be a good gift to the city of Mangaluru."