Kolkata: Visitors to Rabindra Sarobar may have to pay entry fees. The urban development department is discussing the proposal of levying an entry fee to control access to the Lake. At present, there is an entry fee at Banabitan Biodiversity Park in Salt Lake and in the grounds of Victoria Memorial Hall.Sources said the proposal was mooted shortly after urban development & municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Paul carried out an inspection of Dhakuria lake on Wednesday. An earlier plan to introduce a fee had been shelved after objections from citizens.UD&MA officials said that when the entry fee is introduced, passes will be issued to morning-walkers that will allow them free access till 10am. Thereafter, visitors will have to buy tickets. “The proposal is under the minister’s consideration,” said a UD&MA dept official.On Wednesday morning, Paul inspected the lake premises and asked Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) staff to step up regular upkeep and cleanliness. “There are problems of pollution in the lake. Cleanliness has to be maintained. Dry leaves, branches and weeds have to be cleared regularly,” the minister said.Paul also urged dog lovers and pet owners to keep the Lake premises clean. “Pet lovers are feeding dogs at different spots and the area is becoming dirty. Dog feeding should be done at the designated feeding zones only. I would request all to cooperate with us,” Paul said.Paul added that in general it would be better not to have any dogs inside the lake premises. “Why is the Lake’s security allowing stray dogs enter the area? Those who have pet dogs and are bringing them, of course you will walk around with them, but if they poop, it is your responsibility to collect the poop. If they leave after making the place dirty, why should the common people tolerate that?” Paul added. “The morning-walkers said that there are several clubs here and there is a mosque from where the sewer water is allegedly getting discharged in the lake. The sewerage and drainage system has to be checked. There are complaints of illegal construction happening within the premises. I will probe into the matter and check whether the constructions have been approved by NGT or not,” Paul said.Paul said that no dredging has been done in the Lake bed for a long time. “Officials said that a proposal has been sent to the NGT. . No dredging has been done for the last 15 years. Previously fish have died due to the lake water having excess coliform bacteria. Also, the pavements are uneven in several places. I will visit again after 15 days,” the minister said.BoxWhat – Entry fee mulled for entering Rabindra Sarobar* Regular morning walkers will get a pass to enter the lake free till 10 am* At present, there is entry fee for entering Banabitan ( Central Park) in Salt Lake. The entry fees are Rs 10 per person (morning walkers) for 5am to 9am and Rs 50 per person for general visitors from 10am to 5pm.
