In an annual ritual of sorts, the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has decided to take up the rejuvenation of the Ulsoor Lake in the City.
The only difference this time is that the Palike is planning to construct a footbridge there.
According to Palike sources, the BBMP is taking up the de-silting project worth Rs three crore, besides the improvement of Ulsoor Lake and construction of a footbridge.
It has invited tenders to execute the works.
The inflow of sewage chokes the lake and pollutes its water every year.
The Palike has decided to desilt it, clear the garbage, debris and weeds from the lake. Along with these tasks, the contract is also for strengthening the embankment.
Cofferdam
To aid the construction of the footbridge, the Palike has allowed the construction of a cofferdam to facilitate draining of water from the lake, so that the foundation is strong, despite remaining under water.
A highly-placed source said many bidders were keen to execute the works. The awarding of the works was in its final stage and negotiations on the rates quoted by the contractors was on.
He said the de-silting of the lake will be carried out in a scientific manner so that the sludge in the tank bed does not surface again in the next five years.
It may be recalled that heavy inflow of sewage leaves Ulsoor Lake polluted every year.
Inspite of setting up a sewage treatment plant, the lake gets choked with sludge, filth and weeds.
It is an annual ritual for the BBMP to clean and give a new lease of life to the grand old lake.
A portion of the lake is still in the custody of the Indian Army, which carries out its exercises there from time to time.