Seven lakes in Belagavi are set to undergo rejuvenation with ₹29.45 crore sanctioned under the Centre’s Amrut Nagaraothana scheme, with the focus extending beyond beautification to water conservation, greenery and creation of public spaces.
The Belagavi City Corporation has prepared a detailed project proposal for the revival and development of seven lakes — Ram Tirth Lake, Alarwad Lake, Harijan Lake, Muytyanatti Lake, Basavan Kudchi Lake, Fort Lake and Angol Lake.
According to the proposal, the available funds will be used for conservation of water bodies, improving surrounding greenery, creating air-circulation routes and providing basic amenities for citizens.
The proposed development is intended to make the lakes usable as green and open public spaces, particularly as urbanisation continues to reduce natural spaces in the city.
Lake-wise allocation
| Lake | Area | Proposed grant |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Lake | 64.25 acres | ₹8 crore |
| Ramtirtha Lake | 11.37 acres | ₹2 crore |
| Alarwad Lake | 9.69 acres | ₹3 crore |
| Harijan Lake | 14 acres | ₹1 crore |
| Muytyanatti Lake | 13.37 acres | ₹2 crore |
| Basavan Kudchi Lake | 5.93 acres | ₹4 crore |
| Angol Lake | 20.88 acres | ₹9.45 crore |
| Total | ₹29.45 crore |
The project report has been prepared and submitted to the government for approval. Officials have stated that the necessary works have been incorporated into the proposal.
Apart from the lake rejuvenation works, roads and basic civic amenities are also proposed around the water bodies. These are expected to improve public access and create recreational and green spaces for residents.
At Killa Lake, additional works are planned under the Amrut Yojana. The lake, which has been identified for development for several years, is spread over about 64.25 acres.
Meanwhile, in the Fort Lake area, the Minor Irrigation Department has floated a ₹3.10 crore tender for paving works and construction of a retaining wall. These works will be taken up separately from the proposed City Corporation project.
The broader objective of the rejuvenation programme is to restore Belagavi’s lakes as functioning water resources while also developing them as public green spaces, rather than treating the projects merely as beautification works.