Thippayana Kere: Caretaker wants MUDA to build STP to save lake in Mysuru

Fish kill and bird deaths at the lake were reported recently, triggering fears among naturalists about the lake’s future

The recent fish kill and the death of birds at Thippayana Kere, off Outer Ring Road, in Lalithadripura near the foothills of Chamundi in Mysuru, has brought to light the threat faced by water bodies from rapid urbanisation as it is alleged that unchecked sewage flow from adjoining localities is contaminating the water body.

After being rejuvenated with CSR funds six years ago, the lake started attracting birds and was home to more than 40 varieties of birds. The water body, spread over 15 acres, was on the verge of extinction due to dumping of waste before being rejuvenated, turning the environs into a lung space for the local community.

The lake started attracting bird watchers and naturalists as birds were found roosting in the vicinity. The avian visitors included Spot Billed Duck, Pond Heron, Grey Hornbill, Black-headed Ibis, Asian Koel, Painted Stork, Indian Robin, Oriental Darter, Night Heron and Brahminy kite.

With the death of fish and birds, the fears of naturalists and bird watchers have come true as unhindered sewage flow was blamed for the killing of aquatic life and birds. The reason for the recent death of fish and birds, however, is yet to be established though preliminary reports suggest contamination of the lake.

The lake comes under the jurisdiction of Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) and its maintenance was given to the Mysuru zoo, which has been the caretaker of the lake for the last three years.

“Unless the sewage flow is checked or a sewage treatment plant is set up on the lake environs, it is difficult to save the lake from getting polluted,” said Zoo Executive Director Ajit Kulkarni.