Futala Fountain Set to Flow Again in November After Algae Woes, Thanks to IIT Mumbai Solution
The iconic Futala Fountain, known as the longest floating fountain on a natural water body and a pet project of Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, is expected to resume operations in November. The fountain had faced operational challenges due to algae infestation in its ducts, but a solution suggested by IIT Mumbai has brought hope for its revival. While the successful material to resist algae has been identified, the private contractor responsible for the fountain's construction is now tasked with replacing the existing equipment. The fountain's inauguration had been delayed due to the algae issue, and several deadlines for project completion were missed.
The Futala Fountain, a prestigious project in Nagpur, is anticipated to become operational once again in November following persistent issues with algae infestation affecting its functionality.
Initially celebrated as the longest floating fountain on a natural water body and championed by Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, the Futala Fountain was plagued by challenges related to the accumulation of algae in its ducts and wires beneath the water's surface.
Seeking an effective remedy, authorities turned to IIT Mumbai for guidance. IIT Mumbai recommended the application of specialized materials resistant to algae formation. Following a trial period, these materials demonstrated success, providing a solution to the persistent problem.
Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) Chairman MK Suryawanshi confirmed the positive results of the trial, expressing optimism about the fountain's restoration.
However, sources within the construction company responsible for the fountain's maintenance caution that it might be premature to pinpoint an exact timeline for its reopening. The material, which resists algae formation as per IIT Mumbai's recommendation, has yet to be procured. The fountain can only resume operations once this crucial component is in place.
The delay in inaugurating the Futala Fountain has been attributed to the algae issue. Contractors missed multiple project completion deadlines due to the complexity of the situation. Algae formation in the lake, exacerbated by domestic waste from nearby slums entering the water, led to the accumulation of algae on the intricate underwater equipment essential for the fountain's musical displays.
NIT sources have criticized the contractors for not foreseeing and addressing this issue before initiating the project.
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