Mysuru: The CSR Project “Mysuru Water Positive by 2021” initiated by CII Mysuru and the District Administration, will bring industries in Mysuru together to rejuvenate and conserve the lakes in and around Mysuru.

H. Ramakrishne Gowda, Joint Director, DIC, Mysuru and Arjun Ranga, Chairman, CII Mysuru performed guddali puja for the project at Kempegowdana Katte Lake near K.R. Srinivasan IPS Nagar, adjacent to Ring Road, on May 21. The rejuvenation of one acre Kempegowdana Katte Lake is being funded by SBI under its CSR initiative.

Speaking on the occasion, Ramakrishne Gowda said, “With the support of the nearby residents associations, the Lake can be restored and maintained well. The Government and the CII can initiate such projects, but it is in the hands of the residents to look after these lakes.”

Arjun Ranga, who also spoke said, “It is a great opportunity for us to partner with the Government efforts in making Mysuru the first Water Positive City in India. To achieve this, we need to create a healthier ecosystem to save lakes through rejuvenation, restoration, conservation and maintenance. Mysuru has more than 25 lakes. To begin with we have identified 15 lakes in and around Mysuru, which are well connected. CII Mysuru and its member-companies will work closely with the District Administration towards protection, conservation and sustainable management of lakes in Mysuru.”

“Some companies have shown interest and efforts are underway in bringing many more under this project, so that substantial benefit and robust brand image is created for Mysuru,” he said.

The identification, survey of lakes and coordination with the industry and implementing agency is being coordinated by Ramakrishne Gowda and CII Mysuru.  

The rejuvenation of lake will have desilting, erecting fences, constructing and strengthening the bund around the lake, remove encroachments if any, plant the surrounding with ornamental plants, pave walking path and  offer a visual treat for the highway travellers. The project is being implemented by MYKAPS, a spin off organisation of MYRADA.

The members of Welfare association from K.R. Srinivasan IPS Nagar, who were present, assured all support for the maintenance of the lake.