Moodubidire TMC maps all 18 lakes, drafts plans for two | Mangaluru News – The Times of India

Mangaluru: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the state, Moodubidire town municipal council (TMC) has completed scientific documentation of all 18 water bodies within its limits. Detailed plans for restoring two lakes are ready, marking a major step in conserving the town’s water ecosystem.Chief officer Indu M told TOI the project began nearly three years ago when Rotary Club member P K Thomas carried out preliminary surveys to identify and map the lakes. The initiative was later handed over to CDD India, which undertook technical documentation, prepared detailed project reports (DPRs), and suggested conservation measures.“Moodubidire is probably the first TMC in the state to comprehensively document all its water bodies. Based on this documentation, restoration work will be undertaken in phases. The restoration of Gouri Kere was already submitted to the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority (Muda), with the project estimated to cost Rs 75 lakh. Meanwhile, development works at Ontikatte Kere are being supported by SKF Elixer India Pvt Ltd,” she said.CDD India senior programme manager Rohini Pradeep said the project is funded by SBI Foundation, under which CDD India supported three urban local bodies with populations under one lakh to develop them into model sanitation towns. During its assessment of water, sanitation and solid waste management in Moodubidire, the CDD team also received requests from the TMC and Rotary Club to assist in lake conservation.She said DPRs were prepared for Basavanakaje Kere and Ontikatte Kere after detailed technical studies, including mapping of inlets, catchment areas, biodiversity and water-flow patterns. Basavanakaje Kere, which spans about 6 acres, now retains water in only one-third of its area. Plans propose three zones: a recreation zone with public amenities, an ecological zone with plantations to support birds and aquatic life, and a protected zone for biodiversity conservation.Ontikatte Kere, measuring less than 1 acre, will be developed solely for water storage. Since sewage currently enters the lake, plans include diverting wastewater and ensuring that only rainwater flows into the water body, she said.“Technical mapping of all 18 lakes was completed, including identification of disrupted natural water channels. Many lakes are drying up due to disconnection from their upstream catchment areas, often caused by road construction and urban development. The focus will be on restoring natural water flow, improving biodiversity and adopting nature-based treatment methods. Unlike in many urban areas, Moodubidire lakes largely avoided encroachment, as most are located near temples and basadis,” Rohini added.