The Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA) has chalked out plans to provide an effective storm-water drain system for the exhibition grounds here.
According to sources, the Engineering Department of the Karnataka Exhibition Authority is busy preparing the project plan in this regard. It is planned to construct a concrete storm-water drain measuring over 900 metres on the premises to ensure that water doesn’t stagnate and shopkeepers and visitors are not affected during the rains.
It may be recalled here that water and sewage had gushed into the shops during last year’s exhibition causing trouble to shopkeepers and visitors. Rains and the absence of an effective storm-water drain system had also caused a dip in the revenue.
Chairman of KEA, R. Murthy, told The Hindu that the project plan and estimates are being prepared. “Once it is ready, we will submit it to the government for its approval,” he said.
Mr. Murthy said that he has already discussed the matter with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the latter has assured him of providing the required funds.
Mr. Murthy estimated that the project would cost Rs. 6 crore. Many ongoing works, including landscaping near the entrance, an artificial waterfall, lawn, and revamping of two pavilions inside the exhibition grounds would be completed before the Dasara festivities, Mr. Murthy said.
