Hubballi-Dharwad Authorities Launch Comprehensive Rs 25 Crore Plan to Revive Historic Kelgeri Tank
In a significant move to address environmental degradation, the urban development department of the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) and the Hubballi-Dharwad Urban Development Authority (HDUDA) have collaboratively drafted an integrated plan aimed at rejuvenating the historic Kelgeri tank. This initiative comes as a direct response to concerns raised by Upalokayukta Justice N Phaneendra, who recently criticized officials for their neglect of this vital waterbody, which is now teetering on the brink of extinction.
The Plight of Dharwad's Diminishing Waterbodies
Dharwad, once renowned for its seven picturesque tanks, has seen a drastic reduction due to rapid urbanization, with only three remaining today: Kelgeri, Sadhankeri, and Nuggikeri. Among these, Kelgeri lake, spanning approximately 230 acres and nestled in idyllic surroundings, faces a severe threat from invasive plant species. Specifically, the water hyacinth, scientifically known as Eichornia crassipes, has proliferated to cover an alarming 70% of the water area, necessitating urgent intervention.
The invasive water hyacinth forms dense colonies that block sunlight from penetrating the water, causing significant harm to the aquatic ecosystem. This rapid growth creates thick layers over the surface, shading out other aquatic plants and leading to their decay. Experts warn that this decaying process depletes dissolved oxygen levels in the water, making it increasingly difficult for fish and other aquatic life to survive. In many cases, the waters beneath these hyacinth masses become lifeless, highlighting the critical need for restoration efforts.
Political Leadership and Financial Mobilization for Restoration
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, local MLAs Arvind Bellad and NH Konaraddi, along with mayor Jyoti Patil, have taken a proactive lead in initiating comprehensive development works to restore Kelgeri tank and protect its aquatic biodiversity. Bellad announced that development works worth Rs 25 crore will be undertaken in the first phase, with a detailed project report (DPR) set to be submitted to the government shortly.
"A proposal seeking Rs 10 crore from the urban development department has been submitted and is likely to be approved soon," Bellad stated. "Another Rs 10 crore has been mobilized from the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) under its corporate social responsibility initiative, while the remaining Rs 5 crore will be shared by HDMC and HDUDA." This multi-source funding approach underscores the collaborative effort to secure necessary resources for the project.
Comprehensive Development and Innovative Water Treatment
HDUDA commissioner Santosh Biradar outlined the project's scope, which includes the development of a walking track, parking facilities, landscaping, beautification, lighting, and seating arrangements around the tank. "The open gym on the premises will also be restored with new equipment," he added, emphasizing the holistic nature of the rejuvenation plan.
To tackle the critical issue of water quality, the authorities plan to implement nano-bubble technology at a cost of Rs 2 crore. Biradar explained that this innovative treatment uses ultrafine, stable bubbles to increase dissolved oxygen, remove pollutants such as algae, odour, and pathogens, and improve overall water quality. "It is a sustainable method that enhances natural purification processes while reducing energy consumption," he noted, highlighting its environmental benefits.
Addressing Underlying Infrastructure Challenges
Biradar also pointed out a major underlying problem: the absence of an underground drainage (UGD) system in the area, which has led to sewage entering the tank and severely polluting the water. "Providing UGD will require over Rs 500 crore," he said. "Until government approval is secured for that project, we will proceed with beautification and water treatment works to mitigate immediate issues."
The DPR is expected to be submitted to the government within a week, marking a crucial step forward in this ambitious restoration effort. This integrated plan not only aims to revive Kelgeri tank but also serves as a model for addressing similar environmental challenges in urbanizing regions across India.
