The renovation of the Padmatheertham temple tank is all set to gather momentum in the coming days with work on draining the water entering the final phase. The work that commenced on November 27 is all set to be completed by Thursday. Nearly 90 per cent of the work has been completed. The assessment by a technical expert committee showed that the pond holds water to a depth of 2.5m.
After draining the water completely, the pond would be left dry for a few days before taking up the work on strengthening the boundary walls. “We have noticed seepage on the sidewalls. Once the leakage stops, the concentrated silt will be transported and deposited in a safe environment. After that, work on concreting the sidewalls will begin,” R. Sanil Kumar, project manager, Nirmithi Kendra, who is part of the technical committee, told The Hindu .
Fish varieties such as Catla, Rohu, Cyprinus carpio, and Albino shark, found in the tank were shifted to the aquarium at Neyyar and Sreevaraham pond, he said.
As per the plan, the renovated pond will have a bathing ghat, shower area, and a covered pathway to the temple. A cloakroom and benches will also be set up. The mandapams near the pond will also be renovated. A separate facility for rainwater harvesting will be set up near the temple. The renovation of the pond is carried out with the aim of making it an attractive place to visit. The restoration will be completed before the onset of the northeast monsoon.
