JOIN USWhen completed, the sewage treatment plant (STP) at Hiremagaluru on the outskirts of Chikkamagaluru is expected to check lakes from becoming cesspools.
The work on the 20 MLD capacity STP was taken up at a cost of Rs 17.37 crore in 2015. As per the tender conditions, the work should have been completed within 18 months.
However, even after four years, the work is moving at a snail’s pace due to technical glitches and the delay in the release of funds for the work.
Dantaramakki and Kote Kere have been polluted with the sewage water entering these lakes. The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has already submitted a report that the water from these lakes is not conducive for consumption. The KSPCB has also served notices to the concerned officials.
Pais Compound resident Niranjan said, “The work on the UGD is being carried out for the last five years and it has remained incomplete. The officials and elected representatives do not have the willpower to complete the work.”
The tender was entrusted to Oasis EPC Solutions Ltd and the works are being monitored by Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board.
‘The functioning of the STP will check the flow of sewage to the lakes. The work on the STP should be accelerated,” said KSPCB officer E Prakash.
The government delayed the payment for the work twice. Hence, there was a delay in the completion of the STP. The work on the STP has reached the final stage and it is likely to be completed by the month end, said one of the employees.
The primary processing unit, pumphouse, chlorination pit and others have been completed.
Karnataka Urban Water Supply and Drainage Board assistant engineer N C Shilpa said, “The STP will be connected to sewage from all the layouts. The work on the screen chamber and wet wells are in progress.”
CMC ward three member Hiremagaluru Puttaswamy said, “There is a need to check the flow of sewage into open drains and lakes.”