Buried drain, choked lake: Sadhankeri’s hidden lifeline found after 20 yrs

Dharwad: A long-buried underground drainage system beneath the walking track of Baaro Sadhankeri Lake Park has been rediscovered, opening up a crucial opportunity to revive the severely polluted lake and its surrounding green space.Named after Jnanpith awardee poet laureate DR Bendre, Sadhankeri lake has for years borne the brunt of unchecked sewage inflow from nearby residential areas. Ironically, a drainage network constructed nearly two decades ago to divert wastewater away from the lake had fallen into disuse and was eventually forgotten.The breakthrough followed sustained efforts by local resident Venkatesh Telagar, who repeatedly flagged the issue with civic authorities. During development works in 2007, a concealed drainage line nearly 10 feet below the park's walking path was identified. However, years of neglect led to the system getting clogged, allowing sewage from Sadhankeri and surrounding layouts to flow directly into the lake.The lake and park were originally developed under the stewardship of noted scholar MM Kalburgi, then head of the Bendre Trust. Planners had ensured that wastewater would bypass the lake through an underground channel linked to a major stormwater drain behind the Durga Devi temple.Over time, lack of maintenance rendered the system defunct, resulting in untreated wastewater accumulating in the lake, degrading its ecosystem and turning a once scenic spot foul-smelling. Even recent desilting and development works costing Rs 4.5 crore failed due to the continued sewage inflow.Morning walkers now endure a persistent stench, while residents of nearby Hublikar Plot have sought immediate action. Municipal assistant commissioner Arvind Jamkhandi confirmed that the drainage line has been traced with community support and plans are underway to restore it, diverting sewage through Mangalagatti Plot.Residents are also seeking a comprehensive revival of the park and lake, including restarting the musical fountain and improving amenities. Telagar said swift action was vital to restore one of Dharwad's key public spaces.