JOIN USThe Devarakere at Mullusoge near Kushalnagar town is crying for attention. The lake, which was once the life line of farmers in the region has now dried up due to silt and is waiting for revival.
Devarakere is located on the way from Kushalnagar to Koodige town. The huge lake was once used by cattle to drink water and one side of the lake was used for agricultural activities. But gradually, the lake was encroached from all sides over the years, which led to the diminishing of water quantity. It has also resulted in increased silt and the dip in the ground water level.
Speaking to Deecan Herald, Zilla Panchayat former member V P Shashidhar said that the lake which stretches up to four acres of land, has been polluted due to the development of residential areas in the surroundings of the lake. The polluted water that flows from the housing colonies on the upper side of the lake, has polluted the lake water. Along with the silt, the lake is filled with solid waste materials.
Taking note of the same, an action plan is being prepared to develop and rejuvenate the lake, he informed. He also expressed his opinion to build the government complex accommodating various departments in the lake surrounding, keeping in mind the fast growing Kushalnagar town. Someshwar layout resident K S Murthy has demanded the Revenue and the Minor Irrigation Departments to take up the initiative to preserve and develop the lake.
The issue of developing Devarakere, though has been a matter of discussion several times in the past, there has always remained a confusion on how to revive the lake.
However, most of them are of the opinion that, developing the lake would increase the ground water level and along with it, steps could be taken to fish rearing and boating in order to attract tourists.
There was also a confusion in the past regarding the lake belonging to Kushalnagar Town Panchayat or Mullusoge Gram Panchayat. The recent survey conducted, has revealed that the lake belongs to Kushalnagar TP.
“Hence, we would be able to begin the developmental work. The decision will be taken after discussing it with TP’s governing body,” said TP President S P Charitha.