Agara Lake

Agara Lake is one of the rare natural lakes of Bangalore.

The history of the lake can be traced back to the 8^th century. Evidence of the existence of the lake is found in historical documents related to the city of Bangalore. Till a few decades ago the lake was used for the purpose of irrigation and to provide drinking water to the people residing in Agara and the surrounding villages.

A huge catchment area surrounds the lake. Not so long ago, the rain water from this catchment (mainly HSR) used to keep the lake brimming with water. The lake also received the water that overflowed from the Madivala Lake through the Raja Kaluve. The excessive water of the Agara Lake overflowed and reached the Bellander Lake.


However, due to the excessive water pollution and mismanagement of the lake maintenance, the once-attractive lake was turned into a dumping site for garbage and breeding ground of mosquitoes.  Also a fly over construction at the 14th Main and ORR junction caused the source of water from HSR catchment area to get closed that is not yet revived.

The citizens of HSR Layout, along with LDA (Lake Development Authority) are making continuing efforts to save the lake from deteriorating and to put to use an excellent water source to recharge the alarmingly depleting underground water tables.

The iconic ‘Children-Globe-Rooster’ statue that stands along the fence of the lake has been freed from the menace of wild shrubs and bushes. This statue is a big draw for children and adults alike. More than 230 fruit-bearing tree saplings, including varieties such as jamun and peepal, have been planted on the island of the lake.

Source:
Karnataka Government website
Kavitha Reddy's Blog