The district administration has sent three proposals, amounting to Rs. 65.64 crore, to the State government for providing an underground drainage system, a drinking water project and constructing a dining hall complex at Kollur, which houses the Sri Mookambika Temple.
The temple, established by Adi Shankaracharya on the bank of the Souparnika, attracts devotees from across the country. Of the Rs. 65.65 crore, Rs. 24.87 crore is for drinking water, Rs. 19.67 crore for the drainage system and Rs. 21 crore for the dining hall.
According to R. Vishal, Deputy Commissioner, these proposals are expected to be cleared in the next Cabinet meeting. “These proposals provide basic infrastructure in Kollur and enhanced amenities to pilgrims,” he said.
The lack of an underground drainage system has been a major problem in Kollur and the Kodachadri Samrakshana Parisara Trust has held several demonstrations protesting against the pollution of the Souparnika.
“Many lodges and other establishments are discharging sewage into the Souparnika. Hence, a proper and permanent underground drainage system is urgently required,” said K.K. Sabu, president of Kodachadri Parisara Samrakshana Trust.
Since the number of devotees visiting Kollur is increasing, it has become incumbent to provide clean drinking water to them.
As per the proposal, a vented dam would be constructed across the Souparnika and water would be pumped, purified and then supplied to Kollur.
“Both the underground drainage system and water supply project have been designed taking into the needs of Kollur till 2040. The temple, all houses and commercial establishments will be given both water and UGD connections,” Dr. Vishal said.
The existing dinning hall at the temple is inadequate and there are long queues for lunch.
Hence, the proposed dinning hall complex will have four floors and its design provides for lifts, solar steam facility, segregation of used plates and leaves, water recycling, and a modern kitchen with high level of hygiene.
The proposals amount to Rs. 65.65 crore
Rs. 24.87 crore is for drinking water, Rs. 19.67 crore for UGD and Rs. 21 crore for the dining hall
