Sorry state of the pond at Tulasipur. Picture by Badrika Nath Das

Cuttack, Dec. 20: A water body sprawling over nine hectares at Tulasipur will shortly become a recreational spot for residents.

Authorities of the Japan International Co-operation Agency, carrying out an integrated sanitation project involving the state-of-the-art separate drainage and sewer systems, have decided for overall development of the pond.

Sources said the pond at Tulasipur Revenue Colony would be developed and converted into a model water body.

According to the proposals, the proposed recreational spot will be adorned with walkways, lawns and a cafeteria for Rs 15 crore.

Besides, there are also plans to introduce boating facility at the pond, which will be the first of its kind in the city. The development project is likely to begin in January and targeted to be over by July next year.

“There was no proper maintenance of the pond for which storm water of various drains was being discharged into the water body. Hence, we have decided to develop it into a model pond,” said regional co-ordinator of the agency Chinmay Tripathy.

Tripathy said the main objective was also to channelise rainwater in a proper way to check flooding of nearby localities in case of heavy rain in the city.

According to the plans, the wastewater of various storm drains would be channelised in a different route through a three-feet wide drain that will be connected with the main storm water channel No. 1.

Bulk of the rainwater would be allowed to enter the pond through various smaller outlets that will be built to channelise the water. At present, work for demarcation, levelling and removal of silt from the pond has already begun.

“We plan to tab rainwater from catchment localities within 3km to 4km, so that all water is channelised into the pond. This will also be helpful in retaining excess water in case of heavy rain,” Tripathy said.

At present, waterlogging has become a regular feature in several localities, including Tulasipur, Deula Sahi, Bidanasi, which is creating problems for the local residents.

“We have been facing problems due to severe waterlogging in our locality. It has been the case for the past several years. Lack of development of drainage channels is to be blamed for such conditions,” said Tulasipur resident Sudhakar Das.

Das said the residents were also facing problems due to stagnant water that was released into the pond through the locality.