Mandya Deputy Commissioner Kumara has issued directives to officials to implement stringent measures for the protection of lakes and water bodies, alongside launching a systematic campaign to remove encroachments. Chairing a review meeting on lake encroachment clearance at the deputy commissioner’s office on Monday, Kumara emphasized that safeguarding lakes is a collective responsibility and urged officials to intensify efforts to preserve the district’s water resources.
Action Plan for Encroachment Removal
He instructed officials from the panchayat raj engineering division, Hemavathi Left Bank Canal (HLBC), Cauvery Neeravari Nigama Limited (CNNL), and the minor irrigation department to prepare a comprehensive list of encroached lakes in the district and initiate restoration actions. As part of the campaign, he directed officials to clear at least five encroached lakes every month and submit regular progress reports.
Water Quality and Conservation
Highlighting the importance of water conservation, the Deputy Commissioner stated that all lakes currently holding water should be identified and subjected to mandatory water quality testing. He urged officials to ensure proper maintenance and conservation of lakes to safeguard water resources for future generations.
Addressing Pressure on Water Bodies
Expressing concern over increasing pressure on water bodies and drainage networks, Kumara emphasized that officials of the panchayat raj engineering division, HLBC, and CNNL must ensure that storm-water drains (rajakaluves), canals, and feeder channels remain free from encroachments. He noted that encroachments of water bodies not only obstruct the natural flow of water but also contribute to floods and environmental degradation.
