Mangaluru: Tourists and revelers flock to revamped Gujjarakere lake

Mangaluru: Gujjarakere, an 1800-year-old temple lake in the city here, has received a major facelift and developed into a tourist destination under the Mangaluru Smart City project. The pleasant surroundings of the remodeled lake, which was inaugurated recently, is attracting hundreds every day.

Many new amenities have been provided by the project, which cost Rs 4 crore to the exchequer. The lake has been de-silted,  the steps have been reconstructed and safety railings have been fixed for ensuring the safety of visitors. A walking track has come up for the convenience of joggers and walkers. A separate children’s play area has also been built.

The lake, adjoining a temple, now has world-class facilities, including a wide footpath, decorative lamps, a gym area, and restrooms.

High expectations:

Mangaluru residents demanded the uplifting of the iconic lakes for a long time now. The lake was de-silted about 20 years ago, but the water remained muddy. “The recent remodeling under the smart city project has been a welcome move, ” Nemu Poojary who is the secretary of Gujjarakere Theetha Samrakshana Vedike told Udayavani.

MLA D Vedavyasa Kamath said that the lake will be further developed into a tourist destination. There are plans to build a fountain, for which the tender process is in progress. There are discussions with the stakeholders for starting boating at the lake, he added.