Corporation floats tenders for restoration of 32 ponds

In Manali, five ponds from Division 17 will be restored at an estimated cost of Rs 115.42 lakhs and nine ponds from Divisions 16, 17, 19, 20 and 21, at approximately Rs 100.86 lakhs. Similarly, in Madhavaram, 10 ponds have been identified in Divisions 24, 25, 26 and 32 for restoration at an approximate cost of Rs 142.34 lakhs, while eight ponds in Divisions 22, 27, 28 and 30 will be restored at Rs 146.80 lakhs. 

A senior Corporation official said that the restoration process will include dredging, strengthening of bunds, planting native species of trees, while in some ponds they plan to create a play area around it. 

“The main idea is environmental conservation - to ensure that the pond is restored, which will include dredging where required, to remove sludge from sewage inflow. In addition, the move will also ensure water security of the localities. The storm water drains will be connected to the pond, to ensure excess water will flow into the waterbody. The maintenance of the ponds will also be considered, as sensors and cameras will be installed over time, to track pollution and address it immediately,” said the official. The funds for the restoration is not only from the Smart Cities bracket but also from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) allocations. 

“Many companies are interested in channelling their CSR funds for this. The Corporation’s technical team will work with NGOs and the local communities to be a part of the restoration and take ownership of their neighbourhood waterbody,” added the official. The ponds identified include 14 in Manali and 18 in Madavaram.