Musical fountain, dazzling lights... A plan to make Naini Lake sparkle

NEW DELHI: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has launched a project to revitalise the surroundings of Naini Lake in Model Town. It will select an agency to carry out civil work, channel treated water to the lake from a nearby Delhi Jal Board sewage treatment plant, install decorative lighting, build toilet blocks and seating areas, and activate a musical fountain at the scenic waterbody.The project, estimated to cost Rs 10.7 crore and funded under the AMRUT scheme, is likely to be finished in 12 months.

An MCD official said on Thursday, “The agency selected will also be tasked with desilting the lakebed. After that, arrangements will be made to bring treated water from DJB’s Coronation Pillar sewage treatment plant in Mukherjee Nagar to the lake. At present, the lake is being filled with water drawn up by a borewell. Provisions will also be made to supply the treated water from the lake for irrigating the 17-18 parks in neighbouring areas.”
The official disclosed that the project involved upgrading the musical fountain, installing two floating fountains at Naini Lake and making provisions for improved aeration of the lake water. “During rainy seasons, water from the roads accumulate in the park around Naini Lake because it is a low lying area. To address this problem, we have decided to construct a cemented drain along the boundary wall of the park. We will also renovate the toilet block and provide benches for people to sit.”
Officials had claimed earlier that there were plans to enhance the greenery and beautify the lake by planting 7,000 new plant species.
Currently, Delhi Tourism provides boating facilities for visitors to Naini Lake and many people come here for recreation. The restoration of the lake is part of the initiative to rejuvenate and restore waterbodies under the jurisdiction of MCD and DJB as part of the centrally-funded AMRUT 2 scheme.
This is, however, not MCD’s maiden attempt at restoring the lake. In 2023, the civic body had invited tenders after receiving anticipatory approval of the mayor. An official said, "The first tender was withdrawn in mid-Oct. The second attempt was made in Feb this year, but only a single bid was received. It took us three months to reinitiate the tendering process due to the model code of conduct in force for the Lok Sabha elections. If the response is not found satisfying in this, the third attempt, we will immediately go for the next attempt so the revamp work can positively start this year."