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Bangalore: The Forgotten City of Lakes!

By Shruthi

Once known as the city of lakes, Bangalore has been hit in the false name of progress and urbanisation. The lakes of Bangalore have over the years contributed to the pleasant weather of the city. There were a total of 280 lakes and tanks in the year 1960. And 30 years down the line, the water bodies summed up to less than 80. Today, there are only 17 lakes in the city which are tended to by many NGO's and activists more than Government authorities!

It looks like Bangalore has always shared sad romance with nature. A wide variety of birds used to hibernate to the city, thanks to the lakes. But with important lakes being converted into bus stands and golf courses, the city has suffered to catch a sight of old beauty. The lake ecosystem is in total imbalance. However, there have been continuous measures taken to preserve the leftovers. Be assured to be mesmerized with the remnants!

There's so much unexplored beauty next door; we underestimate the idea of proximity and go in search of grander truths far away! Here's a magical sight of the beautiful lakes in Bangalore...

Ulsoor/Hulsoor Lake, Perfect is not the Word.

Ulsoor/Hulsoor Lake, Perfect is not the Word.

Ulsoor Lake dates back to the time of Kempe Gowda, the founder of Bangalore. But the Ulsoor lake as it stands today owes it to the then Commissioner of Bangalore, Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring. The lake is located in Eastern Bangalore near the famed MG Road.

Sankey Tank, Perfect is the word.

Sankey Tank, Perfect is the word.

Being a man-made lake, Sankey got its name from its constructer Col. Richard Hieram Sankey. Sankey Tank is also called Gandhadhakotikere for there was once a sandalwood depot located next to the lake. The serene environ has made it a joggers' hub today.
Photo Courtesy: Jobin Bosco

Madivala Lake, Birding Calls!

Madivala Lake, Birding Calls!

Come November-December, the Madivala lake witnesses a huge number of spot-billed pelicans migrating to its abode. One could also get to see Egrets flying about in the area. The Madivala lake has also been affected due to the degradation in the lake ecosystem.

 Hebbal Lake, Framed Fame!

Hebbal Lake, Framed Fame!

Hebbal Lake is one of the three constructed by Kempe Gowda himself in 1537. The lake is said to be predominantly eutrophic thanks to the inflow of sewage water. The lake sees a wide variety of birds each year and is a shutterbugs' favourite in Bangalore.

Lal Bagh Lake, A Bite of Nature!

Lal Bagh Lake, A Bite of Nature!

Probably the most famous of Bangalore lakes, the Lal Bagh lake is located in the South of Bangalore. The lake is in the renowned Lal Bagh Botonical Gardens. Tourists from all over visit this place to relax and take a bite of nature!

Hesaraghatta Lake, when Beauty and Needs meet!

Hesaraghatta Lake, when Beauty and Needs meet!

Situated to the North-West of Bangalore, Hesaraghatta is a man-made water reservoir to meet the drinking water needs of the city. It was created across River Arkavathy by the Dewan of Mysore state Sir K. Sheshadri Iyer. The TG Halli Dam lies in close proximity to this lake. The lake sees many winter migrants and is delightful to visitors.

Bellandur Lake, Touristy in Proximity?

Bellandur Lake, Touristy in Proximity?

Situated in the South-East of Bangalore, Bellandur Lake is the largest in the city. It has a catchment area spread across 37,000 acres. It is sad that the lake is filled with weeds and there is no tourist activity happening anymore!

Varthur Lake, Ancient Remains!

Varthur Lake, Ancient Remains!

Another lake affected by Eutrophication, Varthur Lake is situated to the East of Bangalore. This man-made lake is said to have a history of thousand years. The Gangas built the lake for agricultural purposes and the lake till today continues the want to serve its cause.

Agara Lake, Life Moves On...

Agara Lake, Life Moves On...

Part of Bangalore South Taluk, Agara Lake is located in the Panchayat village of Agara. It lies in close proximity to HSR Layout. The lake is beautiful and attracts visitors to watch the sun rise and set...

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