Mangaluru: The famous ‘Devara Kere’ which is also known as Kavoor Kere will be developed under smart city mission by Mangaluru Smart City Ltd at the cost of Rs 8 crore.
As a part of the rejuvenation works, a dedicated cycle track will come up along the bund of Kavoor lake. The lake would be dredged under the project and walking track, park, public toilet and vehicle parking facility will be provided.
The lake will be fenced and there will be an entry plaza. Even the landscaping work will be taken up.
An urban plaza with utility block which houses public facilities like toilets, drinking water unit will be developed at the entrance in the nothwest side of the lake. The existing step well will be renovated. The work on the chain link fencing will be taken up to protect the lake from further encroachment.
So far, the lake was polluted owing to the waste being released into it. Garbage, plastic covers, bottles, metal, glass pieces, were thrown near the lake bund which gradually entered into the lake.
Kick-starting the development work here, Mangaluru North MLA Dr Y Bharath Shetty said that the lake will be developed at a cost of Rs 8 crore. As per the records, the lake covered an area of 8.32 acres. However, owing to encroachment, the extent of the lake has been reduced to five acres. There is a possibility of further encroachment if the lake is neglected. The work should commence immediately, he added.
He also informed that development of the lake will help in improving the groundwater table in the area. The lake will be developed as a tourist spot.
Mayor Divakar said various development works will be taken up under the Smart City Mission in Mangaluru city.
Deputy Mayor Vedavathi, Kavoor Kere Abhivrudhi Seva Trust President Deepak Poojary and others were present.