Efforts on to beautify Kapra Cheruvu

Kapra: The beautification of Kapra Cheruvu has been going on under the scheme, 'Mission Kakatiya.' Funds up to Rs 9.41crore have been sanctioned toward its development. A walking track is also being laid. At first, there was an objection from fishermen community stating that they would lose their livelihood. They only withdrew their protest after officials of irrigation department assured compensation for the loss they would incur.

Silt removing work is under progress. Children park wood bridge, toilets, yoga centers would also be set up as part of the beautification process. The works will take about a year to complete and to give a new look to the reservoir.

The tank used to provide water for drinking and irrigation for the people in the vicinity. The area of the tank has been reduced to 70 acres from the original 112 acres. Movie shootings used to happen on the tank. But, over the years it has become a victim of encroachments. Illegal constructions have come up in the buffer zone blocking the rainwater inlet. In order to protect the tank from encroachments, officials have put up fence around it.

The project development works estimated to be about Rs 9.41 crore include developing the bund with Rs 77 lakh, walking track development costing Rs 1 crore, silt removing works costing Rs 78 lakh, Rs 37 lakh toward construction of sewage diversion culverts and rainwater inlet structures. Rs 60 lakh toward construction of compound wall, where there is no fence. Also, landscaping is being built with a cost of Rs 80 lakh, wood bridge is costing Rs 38 lakh, and ring bund about Rs 65 lakh.

Apart from these, viewing decks are being built at a cost of Rs 19 lakh, children's park at a cost of Rs 9 lakh, yoga centre at Rs 6 lakh, open gym at Rs 2.47lakh. Assistant Engineer at Irrigation Department VV Srinivas said the beautification works would be executed on war-footing.

"Earlier, we had objection from fishermen community, which caused a slight delay. We've spoken to the officials concerned to come to the aid of fishermen. We are also planning for a boating facility once the works are completed. The tank will be turned into an attractive place for the people to visit," he added.  

By S Ashok