Nabarangpur, March 19: The state Urban Development Department has approved a grant of ₹50 lakh for the restoration of two water bodies in the Rajarajuda Amala area of Nabarangpur city—Goramunda Pond and Nuabandh Sahi pond. Preparations are underway to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the complete beautification of both ponds. Once the DPR is approved, restoration work will begin, said Municipal Executive Officer Dr. Ashok Kumar Karpu.
Currently, Nuabandh Sahi pond, which originally spanned 20 acres, has shrunk to 10 acres due to encroachment. The pond has been heavily polluted, with sewage and wastewater entering all city ponds, turning the water a greenish color. The ponds are also used for marriage rituals, religious ceremonies, funerals, and other activities, often leaving behind mud, polythene, and other waste, making the pond banks unhygienic. Locals from nearby settlements Nuabandh Sahi and Saura Sahi report that swimming in the pond can cause skin diseases.
Similarly, Goramunda pond, originally covering 20 acres, has been encroached upon by some businesses constructing stalls. Residents of Keutasahi, Mangarajsahi, Ichhabatiguda, and Bhatishalguda depend on these ponds and are concerned about their deterioration.
AThe restoration of both ponds is estimated to cost ₹1 crore. Over time, due to lack of maintenance, water drainage, and cleaning, the ponds have become overrun with waste and silt. Following repeated requests by councilors A. Satish, Sarmistha Deo, and I. Muralikrishna, a proposal was submitted to the state Urban Development Department for the restoration of the two ponds, said Municipal Chairperson Kunu Nayak.
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