From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Jun 26: The Arkavathy river, once a major source of drinking water to the people of Bangalore, can hope for its revival if the British High Commission’s offer to provide technical assistance materialises.

The rejuvenation of the Arkavathy river, if successful, could partially ease the drinking water problems of the Bangaloreans almost completely dependant on the Cauvery river.

Water Resources Minister M B Patil told reporters that his Department officials have prepared a detailed proposal for rejuvenation of the Arkavathy river at a cost of Rs 22 crore.

But the actual requirement of funds was much more, he said.

The minister said the British High Commissioner had met the Principal Secretary, Water Resources Department, and agreed to provide necessary consultative support to develop River Arkavathy on the lines of the successful work done on rejuvenation of the Thames river in London.

 "They (British) will assist in mapping of the river route and will suggest what needs to be done for its rejuvenation,” he said.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) too have come forward to fund for preparing Detailed Project Report and for consultancy. Once the DPR is ready, we will pose it before international agencies for funding,” he said.

He said the total catchment area of this river is around 6,000 hectares and the length of this river is around 80 km.

The Arkavathy river starts from Nandi Hills and passes through various places.

Satellite images would be taken to identify the course of the river and clear whatever bottlenecks en route.

"The department will explore all legal ways to remove bottlenecks. If needed, some strong steps will also be initiated,” he said.

"Untreated sewage water and effluents from industries are diverted into Arkavathy river. This river, once revived, will become one of the important sources of water in the coming years," he added.