The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that Powai Lake is expected to be free from sewage inflow from October 1, as work to intercept all 18 sewage outfalls connected to the water body nears completion. The announcement came during a standing committee meeting that also saw extensive discussion over the civic body’s proposal to appoint a consultant for the lake’s redevelopment.
The BMC has proposed engaging AECOM Asia Company Ltd to prepare a detailed redevelopment blueprint for the Powai Lake stretch along Adi Shankaracharya Marg. The consultancy assignment is estimated to cost Rs 1.85 crore, with the civic body seeking an exemption from the standard public tendering process.
The proposal marks a renewed effort to improve the lakefront nearly two decades after the development of a 1.8-km promenade between Ganesh Ghat and Pawarwadi immersion points in 2008. Since then, limited restoration and beautification work has been undertaken in the area.
Congress corporator Ashraf Azmi questioned the selection of the consultant, raising concerns about its experience in lake restoration projects. “We are spending taxpayers’ money on this project and hence, we should be fully aware whether the objective for which the work is being awarded will actually be fulfilled,” Azmi said.
NCP corporator Saeeda Khan suggested transforming Powai Lake into a recreational destination featuring sports activities and laser shows to generate revenue. She also proposed relocating the lake’s crocodiles to Byculla Zoo.
Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Yashodhar Phanse sought clarification on the decision to bypass the tendering process, arguing that several firms possess expertise in lake development projects.
Addressing the concerns, Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar said approximately 18 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage entering the lake is being diverted through the interception of all 18 outfalls. “By June 30, the diversion work will be completed and effectively from October 1, no sewage will enter Powai Lake,” Bangar said.
He added that the outfalls have been physically verified by BMC officials along with IIT-Bombay. Bangar stated that AECOM was selected due to its experience in major infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Coastal Road. He said the redevelopment plan would be prepared with technical inputs from IIT-Bombay and the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), while a dedicated committee would oversee implementation.
According to Bangar, the proposed restoration programme covers both the artificial lake and the adjoining promenade, with the possibility of adding recreational facilities in the future. On the issue of crocodile relocation, he said any decision would require scientific assessment. He further clarified that the planned restoration works do not require Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance.
Source: The Times of India
