Centre likely to okay Rs 97.77 crore Koradi lake rejuvenation plan

Nagpur: One of the biggest in the district, Koradi lake is set for rejuvenation and beautification. The central government is likely to approve Rs 97.77 crore rejuvenation plan for the lake situated around 15kms from the city. The project can also benefit the city as it also envisages construction of artificial immersion tank for big idols.
Guardian minister Chandrashekar Bawankule had proposed the rejuvenation plan for the lake that is in his legislative assembly constituency.The lake’s rejuvenation will benefit the Mahalaxmi Jagdamba Mata temple pilgrimage development project and Mahagenco that owns the lake and also utilizes its water in Koradi and Khaparkheda power stations.
Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) has been appointed nodal agency for the plan. NIT had prepared the detailed project report and submitted it to state’s environment department. After approval, the environment department submitted the plan to Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change that asked IIT Roorki to verify it. IIT team had visited the lake and held discussions with the NIT officials and consultant Bhivgade and Associates. During its latest visit, the team suggested a few changes and additions.
Nishikant Bhivgade told TOI government was serious about the rejuvenation plan and was likely to approve it soon. “We and NIT are complying with the suggestions of IIT Roorki. Suggestion has been given to undertake sedimentation analysis etc. We will finalize the plan and submit within two months. Lake is a part of Koradi pilgrimage development project and hence very important. It is also a research oriented project,” he said.
Bhivgade added desilting and de-weeding along with other types of works will be undertaken under the rejuvenation plan. “Lake is spread over 263 hectare so works will be limited to some parts, especially towards the temple. Proposal is to construct a big artificial immersion tank on other side of the national highway. Big idols also from the city can be immersed in the tank. It is possible as national highway is in good condition. It will help in conservation of water bodies in the city,” he said.
Under pilgrimage development plan, proposal is to also develop sea plane project in the lake. Boating and other recreation activities are also proposed. The lake is major attraction for temple visitors. Groundwater level in Koradi town and villages near the lake will also increase with rejuvenation. Currently, the lake is affected badly by growth of weeds and shrubs over almost half its area. It is divided in two parts on either sides of national highway. The part west of national highway is in very bad condition.