Despite spending crores of rupees on restoration and eco-friendly infrastructure, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has failed to maintain Police Line Takli Lake in North-West Nagpur. The lake and an adjacent artificial immersion tank have returned to a sorry state. This raises serious questions over the civic body’s upkeep of public projects. A spot inspection by ‘The Hitavada’ found thick weeds, overgrown bushes and wild grass covering large portions of the lake. The concrete retaining walls are barely visible at several places. Submerged weeds have spread across the lake bed, while lotus leaves cover nearly half of the water surface. Unchecked growth of vegetation reflects a sorry state of the lake’s ecological health. Dense plant growth can affect water circulation and oxygen levels, threatening aquatic life if left unmanaged.

 

The lake had earlier reached brink of deterioration. Former Mayor Dayashankar Tiwari had launched a restoration drive, for which Rs 50 lakh was sanctioned to repair the damaged embankments. Later, the civic administration reportedly spent around Rs 8.50 crore on an artificial immersion tank beside the lake. The facility was built to prevent pollution caused by direct immersion of idols in the water body. However, condition of the lake and the immersion tank suggests that the infrastructure has not received adequate routine maintenance. Desilting, removal of weeds and regular cleaning remain essential to protect the water body.

 

A resident expressed concern over the neglect. He pointed to the condition of the immersion tank, which has become filthy soon after conclusion of Navratri. Remnants of immersed Goddess Durga idols, wooden structures, straw, discarded cloth and nirmalya can be seen floating in the dark, stagnant water. The waste emits a foul smell, affecting the surrounding neighbourhood. A resident of Jafar Nagar said the stagnant water could pose a serious health issue for the public. October’s heat and seasonal rise in vector-borne diseases have added to residents’ concerns. The filthy water has become a favorable breeding site for mosquitoes that spread dengue and malaria. Residents fear that the neglected tank could increase the mosquito population in nearby residential areas. Residents want NMC’s immediate intervention to clear weeds, remove accumulated waste, clean the immersion tank and ensure regular maintenance.