Tirupati Plans KFW-Assisted ₹800-Crore Lake And Tank Restoration Project
Providing details, the collector explained that the first phase of the project, estimated at around ₹550 crore, is proposed to be completed in four years: Reports
TIRUPATI: Tirupati district administration has drawn up a major plan to develop the pilgrim city as a climate-resilient urban centre through restoration and interlinking of lakes and tanks under the proposed “City of Lakes and Tanks” project. The overall project cost is estimated at ₹750–₹800 crore.
Addressing a press conference in this regard here on Tuesday, district collector Dr. S. Venkateswar said the project is being planned with support from German development bank KfW and ICLEI (International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives).
Various tanks will be connected into a cascade system. He disclosed that TUDA (Tirupati Urban Development Authority) has conducted a comprehensive study over the past 6–8 months in coordination with the Tirupati Municipal Corporation, Irrigation department and other agencies.
Providing details, the collector explained that the first phase of the project, estimated at around ₹550 crore, is proposed to be completed in four years. It would involve interlinking tanks in the western part of the city, flood mitigation measures, and wastewater and storm-water management.
Referring to the floods that affected Tirupati in 2021, Dr. Venkateswar said the project would include measures to manage excess rainwater and prevent recurrence of such flooding. The interconnected tanks would be designed to divert excess water to the Swarnamukhi River whenever necessary.
The collector said sewage would be prevented from entering the tanks through a separate wastewater management system, with sewage treatment plants proposed at the required locations. The project would also focus on improving groundwater levels and strengthening drinking water security as the city expands.
Dr. Venkateswar said the KfW has a portfolio of urban development projects worth more than ₹16,000 crore in India. Discussions are underway for financial assistance for the project. A detailed project report (DPR) is being prepared. However, the external loan would require approval from the Department of Economic Affairs, Government of India.
TUDA chairman C. Divakar Reddy said the original plan to link 12 tanks and later 20 tanks has been expanded to 34 tanks, keeping the future Greater Tirupati in view. He said Avilala, Anasamudram, and other tanks would also be developed as recreational and tourism centres. He said tenders have been called for the proposed 5.6-km to 7-km canal connecting Peruru and Avilala tanks, while works estimated at ₹23 crore have been proposed for the Avilala Tank Bund.
KFW representative Rainer said their team has conducted a two-day field assessment. They would further study the hydrological and technical components for preparing a DPR. These will be forwarded to the Appraisal Mission for further consideration.
