Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Nov 27: The once-thriving lakes of undivided Dakshina Kannada district, including six large ones and hundreds of small and medium-sized lakes, are now in a state of neglect. Many of these lakes are on the verge of drying up due to a lack of maintenance.

In Udupi district, 38 lakes were developed over the past three years at a cost of Rs 15 crore, while in Dakshina Kannada, 30 lakes were rejuvenated at an expenditure of approximately Rs 10 crore. However, since 2023-24, government funding for lake development has ceased.

Under the central government’s Amrit Sarovar scheme, 150 lakes—75 in each district—were rejuvenated. Additionally, hundreds of lakes were developed under the minor irrigation department and state government funds. Despite these efforts, most of these lakes are in a deplorable state today.

Funds ranging from Rs 2 lac to Rs 2 crore were spent on lake development. Key works included constructing bunds, creating steps, desilting, cleaning, installing walking tracks, and providing seating arrangements.

Within a year of development, many lakes reverted to their original neglected state. Post-monsoon, these water bodies are overrun with weeds and algae, with no efforts made for cleaning or maintenance.

For large lakes, separate committees are established for maintenance. However, in both districts, these committees have failed to function effectively. Since lakes do not generate revenue and there is no regular funding, local authorities are reluctant to take responsibility for their upkeep.

Under the Amrit Sarovar scheme, 75 lakes in each district were selected and rejuvenated with funding between Rs 2 lac and Rs 5 lac per lake. While flag-hoisting ceremonies were held near these lakes for two consecutive years, the lakes and the flagposts have since been abandoned.

In Dakshina Kannada, there are two large lakes spread across 131 hectares, while Udupi district hosts four major lakes spanning 283 hectares. Notable lakes include Kavoor Lake in Mangaluru taluk, Karinjeshwara Lake in Bantwal, Ellur Dalanturu Lake in Kaup, Chantharu Madaga in Brahmavar, Kandavara Herikere in Kundapur, and Anekeri in Karkala.

The minor irrigation department maintains lakes only if their water is used for agricultural purposes. “None of the six large lakes in the region are utilized for agriculture, so no maintenance is carried out by our department,” said the executive engineer of the Mangaluru division.

Most lakes in both districts are deteriorating due to neglect. While lakes play a vital role in groundwater recharge, the lack of priority for their maintenance has left them silted and filled with weeds. Immediate action by the district administration, zilla panchayats, and relevant departments is necessary. Otherwise, the existing water in these lakes may soon dry up completely.