Lakes in Karnataka: Nature’s Still Waters of Ecology, Heritage, and Tourism
Bellandur Lake: Urban Giant in Distress
Located
in southeaster Bengaluru, Bellandur
Lake is the city’s largest water body, covering a catchment area of
approximately 148 square kilometers. With a length of 3.6 km and width of 1.4
km, it was once a flourishing aquatic ecosystem. Today, however, it is
emblematic of the environmental challenges faced by rapidly urbanizing regions.
The lake suffers from extensive sewage inflow, frothing episodes, and
pollution—a stark reminder of the strain on urban water resources. Despite
these concerns, it remains central to citywide rejuvenation plans aiming to
restore its ecological health through wastewater treatment and afforestation.
Hebbal Lake: From Ancient Waters to Restoration
Goals
Hebbal
Lake, situated in northern Bengaluru near National Highway 7, dates back to
1537 when Kempe Gowda, the founder of
Bengaluru, established it. This picturesque lake spans a catchment area
of 3,750 hectares and once supported local biodiversity and fisheries. However,
uncontrolled sewage inflow over the years degraded its ecological vitality. The
Indo-Norwegian Environment Programme stepped in with a restoration project
focusing on wetland reconstruction, water purification, and community
awareness. Today, the lake's scenic charm draws birdwatchers and walkers,
making it a subtle blend of ecology and recreation.
Sarakki Lake: A Legal Lifeline for Nature
Sarakki
Lake, located in the southern Bengaluru locality of J. P. Nagar, faced a
severe threat from real estate encroachment. In 2014, the High Court of Karnataka intervened,
ordering the removal of illegal developments from the lakebed. The legal action
reinvigorated citizen activism and fostered a culture of conservation.
Restoration efforts have since taken shape, including waste management and
boundary protection, emphasizing how judicial oversight can serve as a powerful
ally in ecological preservation.
Kukkarahalli Lake: Mysore’s Historic Reservoir
Kukkarahalli Lake in Mysore was constructed in 1864 by
Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar of the Mysore Dynasty to irrigate 4,000 hectares of
farmland. Over time, this lake became integral to Mysore's hydrology,
supporting migratory birds and lush greenery. However, encroachments and sewage
led to eutrophication—excessive algae and plant growth due to nutrient
runoff—undermining its health. Ongoing rejuvenation projects, including
de-silting, pollution control, and eco-park development, reflect Mysore’s
commitment to maintaining both heritage and habitat.
Pampa Sarovar: The Sacred Waters of Devotion
Not far
from the World Heritage Site of Hampi lies Pampa Sarovar, a lake soaked in mythology and spiritual reverence.
Believed to be the place where Pampa, an incarnation of Parvati, meditated for
Lord Shiva’s affection, and where Shabari awaited Lord Rama, the lake holds
great religious value for Hindus. Besides its cultural resonance, Pampa Sarovar
sits in a biodiverse setting, harboring rare flora and fauna. Pilgrims and
tourists alike visit for its serenity, merging spiritual tourism with nature
appreciation.
Ayyanakere: A Reservoir with Royal Roots
In the
Chikmagalur district near Sakharayapatna village, Ayyanakere Lake is one of Karnataka’s oldest man-made lakes, built
by Rukmangada Raya and later renovated by the Hoysala kings in 1156 A.D.
Spanning a network of irrigation canals, the lake waters nearly 1,560 hectares
of agricultural land. Its surrounding hills and paddy fields offer a scenic
escape, attracting nature lovers, trekkers, and agricultural scholars.
Ayyanakere reflects the legacy of traditional water management and sustainable
rural livelihoods.
Lesser-Known Yet Vital Lakes
Beyond
the headline names, Karnataka is home to countless other water bodies that
nourish life and leisure. Lakes like Hesaraghatta,
Puttenahalli, Vibhutipura, and Yediyur are crucial for urban green
spaces, migratory bird habitats, and community recreation. Puttenahalli, for
instance, is recognized as a bird conservation reserve, while Hesaraghatta
serves as a vital water source for Bengaluru and its surrounding towns.
The Ecological and Tourism Nexus
Lakes in
Karnataka are more than just water bodies—they are ecological assets, cultural markers, and tourism magnets. Their
scenic beauty supports nature tourism, birdwatching, boating, and spiritual
retreats. Importantly, these lakes are habitats for native and migratory bird
species, aquatic flora, and even rare amphibians. Restoration programs across
Bengaluru and other cities are beginning to prioritize lakefront development
through sustainable, eco-conscious models.
Initiatives
like lake adoption by communities, government-funded clean-up drives, and
partnerships with environmental NGOs underscore a shifting consciousness.
People no longer see these lakes as inert land parcels, but as breathing
ecosystems with roles in flood control, groundwater recharge, microclimate
regulation, and biodiversity conservation.
Conclusion
Karnataka’s
lakes represent an Intersection of Ecology
history, and human aspiration. From royal reservoirs to sacred tanks,
urban retreats to agricultural lifelines, each lake tells a story of how humans
and nature have shaped one another over centuries. As environmental pressures
mount, the need to protect these shimmering blue patches is more critical than
ever. Through a mix of public involvement, legal action, heritage preservation,
and scientific restoration, Karnataka Lakes can continue to flourish—ensuring
they remain sanctuaries of life, learning, and leisure.
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