On Thursday, a team from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mumbai visited Futala Lake to investigate the causes behind an algae infection that disrupted the musical fountain installed at the picturesque site. The private contractor Khalatkar Construction Company (KCC), responsible for the fountain’s construction, invited the IIT team to find a solution to the problem.
Although the project, conceptualized by Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, is yet to be officially handed over to the Nagpur Metro Region Development Authority (NMRDA), the KCC is currently working on it. The contractor has only conducted trials so far, and the transfer of the fountain’s regular operation to the NMRDA will be finalized in due course.
The underwater mesh containing electrical wiring, pumps, and other equipment has become covered in a layer of algae, impeding the functioning of the musical fountain. This accumulation of algae is a result of domestic sewage from neighbouring areas flowing into the lake, introducing organic matter that promotes its growth and damages the fountain’s electric wiring.
Sources reveal that with over 500 wires involved, manual cleaning is impractical. The matter has been reported to the NMRDA, urging a prompt solution. The project, constructed at the cost of Rs 75 crore, is renowned as the world’s longest-floating musical fountain. Its last trial run took place during the G-20 summit hosted by the city in March.