Nagpur: A group of youngsters working to revive Pandhrabodi Lake has flagged the diversion of a natural rainwater channel as a possible reason for the lake’s dwindling water levels.As part of its campaign, Nagpur Ploggers inspected the hilly terrain near LIT College and the lake’s catchment area to study the natural flow of rainwater. Volunteers observed rainwater cascading down the hills and accumulating near a junction behind Sanjay Nagar, which they believe is close to the starting point of the lake’s natural catchment.According to the group, because the catchment begins at a higher elevation, some of the rainwater now flows through a channel towards Sanjay Nagar instead of draining towards the lake.Suraj Shrivastava, founder of Nagpur Ploggers, said initial observations indicate that a properly graded waterway from the catchment’s starting point to the lake could help restore the natural flow of rainwater.However, he stressed that any intervention must be preceded by a scientific assessment of the terrain, gradients and existing drainage patterns by technical experts and the concerned departments. The aim, he said, is to determine whether rainwater can be redirected towards the lake’s natural catchment without disrupting the existing drainage system.Meanwhile, Shweta Banerjee, superintending engineer in NMC’s public health engineering department, said a proposal to appoint a consultant for the lake’s revival has already been sent. The consultant will survey and analyse the site and help prepare designs for water management and revival works, including an assessment of rainwater flow and waterlogging.
