The authorities have sealed all discharge outlets to prevent the flow of water to the pond
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After repeated complaints from the residents, the authorities have finally kicked off cleaning activities in the holy Padmatheertham pond which has turned into a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
To facilitate the ongoing conservation work, the authorities have sealed all discharge outlets to prevent the flow of water to the pond.
On Saturday, a mass cleaning drive was launched using bioremediation method, which uses natural organism to break down pollutants and purify water.
Kerala State Nirmithi Kendra, the agency roped in by the government to undertake the pond conservation project, brought in a specialised agency to purify the stagnant water.
Nirmithi Kendra project engineer Sanal Kumar said that a Mumbai- based company volunteered to do the purification work on a pilot basis.
“There were complaints regarding mosquito menace. The company agreed to do the work free of cost on an experimental basis. The phase II of the pond cleaning work would take off very soon. We are in the process of finalising the tenders,” said Mr Sanal Kumar.
The plan is to set up a full-fledged bathing ghat along with cloak room and covered walkway as part of the renovation of the century- old Padmatheertham pond.
Mr Sanal Kumar said that tenders would be finalised by next week. The project is estimated to cost around Rs 1 crore.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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