The British High Commission will provide technical assistance to rejuvenate the Arkavathi river, once a major source of drinking water for Bangalore.
Water Resources Minister M.B. Patil told reporters here on Wednesday that the department has prepared a proposal to revive the river. The estimated cost of the project was Rs. 22 crore, though the actual requirement of funds was more.
Recently, British High Commissioner met the Principal Secretary Water Resources Department and agreed to give technical and consultative support to develop the river on the lines of the Thames.
“The High Commission will assist the department in mapping the river route and provide technical expertise for its rejuvenation. Asian Development Bank and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will grant loans for preparing a detailed project report. Once the detailed project report is ready, we will place it before international agencies for funding,” he said.
The river originates in Nandi Hills in Chickballapur district. A large number of industries discharge their effluents into the river on the outskirts of the city.
