Madivala Biodiversity Park project takes wings

The proposed Madivala Biodiversity Park project, on the lines of the Yamuna Biodiversity Park, has moved forward with the Karnataka Knowledge Commission (KKC) submitting a detailed project report to the State government.

The biodiversity park to be set up around the 272-acre Madivala Lake in Bengaluru South, proposes to enhance the native flora and fauna characteristics of the area replete with greenways, butterfly garden, herbal garden and a nature interpretation centre among others.

The proposal has been prepared by renowned Delhi-based ecologist C R Babu from Centre for Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystems and the Lake Development Authority (LDA). The project is an initiative and recommendation of the KKC and has been accepted by the State government.

Rs 24.72 crore sanctioned

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who also holds the Finance portfolio, has sanctioned Rs 24.72 crore for the project in the budget presented for 2015-16. Official sources said the proposal has been sent to the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment for clearance.

The proposal points out that 40 to 50 per cent of the Madivala lake system is terrestrial habitat with waterscape constituting the remaining area. The waterscape has its ecological diversity with a marsh belt of 20 to 30 acres at the southern end and two islands inhabited by exotic tree species. The eastern side has a couple of land projections into the waterbody.

The project proposes to develop a peripheral five to eight metre wide bamboo green shelter all along the boundary of the area. The shoreline of waterbody will be restored and lined with aquatic plants like Typha, Phragmites and sedges. Native fish will be introduced in the waterbody.

Orchidarium planned

On the south-eastern side, the proposal talks about developing a herbal garden, butterfly park and Orchidarium (protected area for cultivation of orchids). There are also plans to construct a “nature interpretation centre” in the area. The centre will have audio-visual facilities to disseminate knowledge about local natural heritage and concepts about biodiversity. A recreation garden replete with horticultural varieties grown in Bengaluru like hibiscus, croton, palms, roses and other perennial shrubby and herbaceous plants will  be put in place. A scented garden will also be a part of the recreational garden, the proposal states.

Nodal agency

The Lake Development Authority has been appointed as a nodal agency for executing the project with a timeframe of five years.

Prof Babu has been credited with developing the 457-acre Yamuna Biodiversity Park located along the river near Wazirabad village in the National Capital Region. The park has emerged as a popular centre for learning and understanding the environment.