Bengaluru's Arkavathi Riverfront Development Project Takes Major Step with Land Acquisition
The Bengaluru South district administration has initiated a significant move to acquire over 28 acres of riverside land in Ramanagara town, marking a crucial advancement for the government's Rs 156-crore Arkavathi riverfront development project. Announced in 2024, this ambitious initiative is entrusted to Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Ltd (CNNL), which has prepared a detailed project report (DPR) and secured approval from the water resources department.
Project Details and Objectives
The project aims to rejuvenate the Arkavathi river while constructing public recreational facilities, including walking tracks, fountains, yoga and gym centers, and an open-air theatre. Additionally, an underground drainage system is planned to prevent sewage inflow into the river, enhancing environmental protection. Based on DPR estimates, a preliminary notification was issued on February 21 to acquire 28 acres and 18 guntas of land across Ramanagara and three adjacent villages: Ijoor, Jeegenahalli, and Cholappanahalli Amanikere.
Implementation and Progress
The development will be implemented along a 2km stretch from the old Bengaluru-Mysuru National Highway to a bridge behind the Sai Baba temple. CNNL has already begun constructing large retaining walls on both riverbanks, with land up to 40 metres from the riverbank set to be developed to boost tourism and include cultural activities. Mohan MN, executive engineer at CNNL, stated that retaining wall construction is expected to be completed by the end of this year, with other project components to follow after land acquisition.
Environmental and Community Benefits
Mohan emphasized the project's role in protecting the river ecosystem, noting that sewage flow into the river will be completely halted. A separate sewage treatment plant will be built to treat wastewater and supply treated water to nearby townships, further supporting sustainable development. He added, "Preliminary notification for land acquisition was issued recently, and we will begin other work parallelly once the acquisition process is completed."
This project represents a key effort in urban infrastructure enhancement, combining recreational spaces with environmental conservation to benefit local communities and promote tourism in the region.
