Nagpur: In a significant development, the Maharashtra Government has approved a fund of Rs 24.96 crore for the rejuvenation and beautification of Sonegaon Lake, situated in the South-West Nagpur, an Assembly constituency represented by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The project, now in its second phase, will see the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) undertake the construction of a retaining wall and a 1.75km pathway encircling the expansive lake, which boasts a water holding capacity of over 17 hectares. The State Government had previously sanctioned Rs 18.20 crore on July 9, 2017, for the initial phase of the rejuvenation initiative.
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Under the completed phase-I works, the lake now features two entrance gates on the east side, two parking areas, sitting arenas, toilets, and more. The NMC has also carried out repairs on damaged walls, constructed stairs, and introduced a unique Nakshatra Garden on the lake’s west side. This garden showcases 27 different plant species associated with the 27 Nakshatras. Additional amenities include an amphitheatre, yoga court, food court, and a designated selfie point.
The ongoing efforts also involve the construction of a cement concrete retaining wall on the south, west, and parts of the north side. Stone cladding along the retaining wall from the lake’s bed has been completed on the north side.
Nagpur, known for its numerous lakes within NMC limits, including Ambazari, Sonegaon, Futala, Pandhrabodi, Police Line Talao, Lendi Talao, Sakkardara Lake, Naik Talao, Gandhisagar, Gorewada and Binaki, has witnessed rejuvenation projects across all lakes. Funding for these initiatives has been secured through the 15th Finance Commission, with both Central and State Governments contributing 25% each to the conservation efforts, while the NMC contributes the remaining 50%.
The rejuvenation and beautification of Sonegaon Lake not only enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the preservation of vital water bodies, reflecting a concerted effort towards sustainable urban development in Nagpur.
