Environmentalists urge authorities to plug flow of sewage water into the lake

Mysore/Mysuru: Thippayyanakere near Lalithadripura that was rejuvenated by the District Administration with the help of Corporates of the city using their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds a few years ago, is in a sad state now with gallons of sewage water flowing into the lake day in and day out.

Yesterday, an Indian spot-billed duck and a couple of fish were found dead and floating in the lake. This is a warning that a disaster to eco-system is to take place, if effective steps are not taken soon to stop sewage from entering the once clean lake.

Thippayyanakere, situated adjacent to Ring Road in Lalithadripura, was rejuvenated in 2018 by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Mysuru and District Administration under “Project Mysuru Water Positive by 2021.”

The rejuvenation of the 10-acre lake which included prevention of sewage flow, de-silting, erecting of fences to give it a clear identity, removal of

encroachments, clearing of clo- sed Raja Kaluve, planting of ornamental saplings, gardens and laying of sitting and walking areas was funded by Automotive Axles Ltd. under its CSR initiatives.

The then AC of Mysuru C.L. Anand had cleared the encroachment of Raja Kaluve located between Police Layout and JSS Layout amid stiff opposition. Following which rain water flowed freely into the lake. The lake was filled with fresh water after years and varieties of bird species including migratory birds began to arrive to the lake. But now, gallons of sewage water is flowing into the lake from Police Layout, Giridarshini Layout, Alanahalli Layout and surrounding areas every day. Even sewage water overflowing from manholes is flowing directly into the lake emanating foul smell.

Apart from attracting migratory birds, the lake, which was attracting people for its clean environment, seems to be neglected by Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) and Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA).

Local authorities should wake up at least now and take steps to prevent sewage water from flowing into the lake which can save the lake from dying. Environmentalists have been urging the District Administration to set up a Sewage Water Treatment Unit and release treated water into the lake. But the District Administration is yet to take a call on it.

Environmentalist Shylajesh said that after the lake was rejuvenated, more than 60 varieties of birds had made this lake their home. Even migratory birds began visiting the lake to roost, he said and added that though the lake comes under Mysuru Zoo, it is the responsibility of MCC and MUDA to maintain it. Pointing out that houses have increased in the surrounding of the lake, he said that rapid flow of sewage water from houses into the lake has to be stopped immediately.

Environmentalists and residents living in the surroundings have urged the authorities concerned to set up a Sewage Water Treatment Plant near the lake and save the water body.