30 years on, another attempt in works to save Upper Lake now mocked by weeds
This marks the first integrated restoration initiative for Bada Talab in 30 years.
Led by the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) in collaboration with EPCO, the plan is being shaped by experts from SPA Bhopal and MANIT. Environmental Planning and Coordination Organisation (EPCO) established in 1981 and which functions as an advisory body on ecological and sustainability issues, to integrate environmental planning into Madhya Pradesh's development process.
Bada Talab, the manmade lake built by Raja Bhoj in the 11th century, remains India's only artificial water body still capable of supplying potable water.
Over the years, it has suffered from unchecked weed growth, siltation, and pollution. De-weeding, particularly along the Bhopal–Sehore stretch, is a priority, as the Kolans River—one of the lake's main feeders—has become choked with nutrient-rich sediment. BMC commissioner Harendra Narayan said a preliminary plan has been submitted to EPCO, which is serving as the nodal agency.
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"Experts from MANIT and SPA are formalizing the integrated development plan.
It will be submitted to the union govt for funding approval as part of the national initiative to preserve UNESCO Ramsar sites," he said. The plan includes lake and river restoration, water treatment, catchment protection, and infrastructure upgrades around sensitive zones. Officials hope the project will not only restore Bada Talab's ecological balance but also reinforce its Ramsar site status and viability as a drinking water source.
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