Sir,

The sacred River Kapila that flows opposite Srikanteshwaraswamy Temple in Nanjangud has become unhygienic, making pilgrims hesitate before taking a holy dip. Waste items such as food scraps, plastic and discarded flower buds are abundant in the river area.

Additionally, on both the eastern and western sides of the 16-pillar monument (Hadinaaru Kaalu Mantapa) along the river, thick vegetation and civic waste have accumulated to the point where the water flow is obscured. The stagnant water causes dirt to remain in place.

The reason for this issue is a shift in the flow path towards the opposite bank, which worsens during summer. Restoring the flow path to its original state for about a kilometre upstream and slightly deepening the flow base at the bathing ghat would eliminate water stagnation, allowing the flowing water to maintain cleanliness naturally.

This solution appears to be technically appropriate, cost-effective and natural, avoiding need for man-made structures. Additionally, there is a need to periodically clear the thick vegetation and dirt from the bathing ghat to the 16-pillar Mantapa.

A vigilant watchman should also be stationed to advise visitors against dirtying the area. Despite the efforts of the local Yuva Brigade, who voluntarily cleaned the area by removing waste and silt, there seems to be no consistent effort from the Temple authorities or the civic body to ensure cleanliness.

Through this column, I appeal to the authorities concerned to address this issue and provide a permanent solution.

– N. Devarajan, Nanjangud, 19.6.2024

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