Municipal Corporation’s (JMC) efforts to improve water quality in Hanumantal through the installation of aerators have drawn mixed reactions from residents. Citizens claim that the devices remain operational for only a limited period each day, reducing their effectiveness. Under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, the civic body installed three aerators in Hanumantal recently. The units have been placed near Hanumantal Police Station, Ghodanakkas and Rajkamal Hotel. Each aerator is equipped with a 2 HP motor and costs around Rs 40,000. The maintenance responsibility has been assigned to a contracted firm for two years. Aerators are used to increase dissolved oxygen levels in water bodies by circulating water and facilitating the exchange of gases between water and air. Scientifically, they help improve aquatic health, reduce foul odours and prevent stagnation by maintaining adequate oxygen levels in the pond. JMC’s Sub-Engineer Yashwant Soni informed that the aerators are currently operated for three to four hours in the morning and for a similar duration in the evening. He said the duration has been fixed keeping in view the large quantity of gases and foul smell emanating from the pond. Soni added that the motors also require periodic rest and that efforts would be made to extend the operational hours in the future.

 

The Corporation is also considering increasing the number of aerators. However, several residents believe the machines remain switched off for most of the day and serve more as an ornamental installation than effective tools for pond rejuvenation. The citizens argue that if the objective is to improve oxygen levels and control foul smell, the aerators should operate for longer durations. Pankaj Sahu, a resident of Haunmantal area, said, “The installation of aerators is a welcome step, but the intended purpose can only be achieved if they operate for longer durations. When they remain off for most of the day, their impact on water quality appears limited.” Expressing similar views, Junaid Khan said, “Hanumantal is one of Jabalpur’s historic ponds and deserves sustained rejuvenation efforts. The initiative is good, but the objective should be fully achieved. The pond should be developed and restored according to its historical and environmental significance. While the installation reflects a positive civic initiative towards restoring one of the city’s prominent water bodies, questions remain over whether the available infrastructure is being utilised to its full potential. Residents say, extending the operating hours could significantly enhance the benefits expected from the project.