MEKEDATU PROJECT

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Context

The ongoing debate in Bengaluru regarding the city's drinking water problem and the proposed solutions.

Details

• Environmentalists propose the revival of the Raja Kaluve network and dead lakes in Bengaluru as a solution to the city's drinking water problem.
• The current state of stormwater drains and lakes in Bengaluru is either concretized or functioning as sewage carriers.
• Reviving the lakes and Raja Kaluve network would help streamline water levels and address water scarcity issues.

Importance of Bengaluru's Geographical Location

• Bengaluru is surrounded by three major valley systems: Vrishabhavathi Valley, Hebbal Valley, and Koramangala-Challaghatta Valley.
• These valleys house many lakes and play a crucial role in hydrological processes and groundwater replenishment.

Concerns with the Mekedatu Reservoir Project

• Environmentalists argue that the Mekedatu Reservoir Project is not considering sustainability aspects and has become a political issue.
• The Cauvery River does not have sufficient water to support another dam, as it has maintained a consistent course and precipitation levels over the past 10 years.
• Lakes breach or experience flooding only during the monsoon season when there is no space for water seepage, resulting in overflow.

Advocacy for Ancient Methods and Advanced Technology

• Environmental communicators suggest utilizing advanced technology available for treating impure water instead of constructing a destructive dam.
• Advanced technology allows for the transformation of sewage water into potable water, which can effectively meet the city's water needs.
• Bengaluru, receiving significant rainfall annually and substantial water flow through drainage or sewage (13 tmc), does not require a dam pumping water from the south of the city.

Potential Ecological Destruction and Financial Concerns

• If approved, the Rs 9,000 crore Mekedatu Reservoir Project could lead to the destruction of ecology in both Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
• Submergence of approximately 63% of the forest area of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary is anticipated.
• Investing in a dam and pumping water back from the south of the city is deemed wasteful in terms of resources.

About Mekedatu Reservoir Project

• The Mekedatu Reservoir Project is a proposed initiative aimed at addressing Bengaluru's drinking water needs.
• The project involves the construction of a reservoir on the Cauvery River, located near Mekedatu in Karnataka, India.

Water Supply and Drinking Water Requirements

• Bengaluru faces a significant drinking water problem due to population growth and water scarcity.
• The Mekedatu project intends to utilize the excess water from the Cauvery River to meet the city's drinking water requirements.

Water Management and Sustainability Concerns

• Environmentalists argue that the project lacks consideration for sustainability and ecological preservation.
• They claim that the Cauvery River does not have sufficient water to support another dam, as it has maintained a consistent course and precipitation levels over the past 10 years.

Political Controversy and Government Support

• The Mekedatu Reservoir Project has become a political issue, with various stakeholders involved.
• Deputy CM and Water Resource Minister DK Shivakumar has met with the Union Jal Shakti Minister to discuss the project's details and water utilization.

Impact on Ecology and Forest Area

• Experts estimate that around 63% of the forest area within the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary would be submerged if the project is approved.
• The ecological destruction caused by the reservoir's construction is a significant concern raised by environmentalists.

Financial Implications and Resource Allocation

• The Mekedatu Reservoir Project is estimated to cost around Rs 9,000 crore.
• Critics argue that investing in a dam and pumping water from the south of the city is wasteful in terms of resources, considering Bengaluru's annual rainfall and existing water flow.

Alternative Solutions and Advanced Technology

• Some environmental communicators suggest exploring advanced water treatment technologies to meet the city's water needs.
• Utilizing advanced technology, sewage water can be transformed into potable water, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution.

About Lakes of Bengaluru

• Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka, is known for its numerous lakes that play a significant role in the city's ecosystem and water management.
• Over the years, the lakes in Bengaluru have faced challenges such as encroachment, pollution, and neglect.

Importance of Lakes in Bengaluru

• Lakes in Bengaluru act as catchment areas, storing rainwater and replenishing groundwater.
• They help regulate the city's water table and maintain ecological balance.
• Lakes also provide habitats for various flora and fauna, contributing to biodiversity.

Encroachment and Pollution

• Many lakes in Bengaluru have fallen prey to encroachment, with surrounding areas being developed for residential and commercial purposes.
• Encroachment leads to the shrinking of lake boundaries, reducing their water-holding capacity.
• The encroached areas often contribute to pollution, as untreated sewage and solid waste find their way into the lakes.

Consequences of Lake Encroachment

• Reduced water-holding capacity of lakes results in decreased groundwater recharge during the monsoon season.
• Depleted lakes fail to store and supply water during dry periods, contributing to water scarcity issues in the city.
• Encroachment disrupts the natural habitat of aquatic plants and animals, affecting the overall ecosystem.

Revival and Restoration Efforts

• Various governmental and non-governmental initiatives have been undertaken to revive and restore the lakes of Bengaluru.
• Lake rejuvenation projects focus on desilting, clearing encroachments, and treating the inflow of sewage and pollutants.
• Citizen participation and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in creating a sense of ownership and responsibility towards lake preservation.

Successful Lake Rejuvenation Projects

• Kaikondrahalli Lake, Bellandur Lake, and Jakkur Lake are notable examples of successful lake rejuvenation efforts.
• These lakes have undergone significant restoration work, including desilting, construction of wetlands, and implementation of sewage treatment measures.
• Improved water quality, revival of biodiversity, and recreational spaces have been the outcomes of these rejuvenation projects.

Challenges and Future Considerations

• The revival of lakes in Bengaluru faces challenges such as sustained maintenance, community involvement, and preventing future encroachments.
• Continuous monitoring and enforcement of regulations are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of restored lakes.
• Integrated water management approaches, including rainwater harvesting and effective sewage treatment, need to be implemented to prevent further pollution.

https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/2023/jul/03/revive-bengalurus-raja-kaluves-instead-of-mekedatu-project-environmentalists-2590796.html