Karwar: Bheemkol Lake in Dhanakona Taluk, which was lying in ruins due to vegetation, is now a favourite destination for tourists. In a bid to add to the beauty of the area, which is packed with tourists during the holiday season, the Social Forestry Department has come forward to provide other basic amenities including Panchavati Vana.
Bheemkol Lake, situated on the fringes of nature, was lying in a dilapidated condition two years ago. Zilla Panchayat Former Chief Executive Officer Priyanga M. had taken great care to develop the lake, where even the locals were reluctant to go. Bheemkol Lake has now become an attraction for tourists as it was developed under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme with a grant.
On the banks of the lake, a bed of pebbles has been constructed and grass has been grown in the middle. There is also a walking path, and seating arrangements for sitting along the shore. Now, a lot of tourists are visiting not only from within District but also from outside the District.
Due to less rainfall, the water level in the lake has also receded. However, during the holidays, there is an influx of tourists in the morning and evening. In view of the increase in the number of tourists, development works have been taken up with a grant of Rs. 14.5 lakh from ZP and Taluk Panchayat in the adjoining Forest Department land.
Like the Panchavati Vana in the Ramayana, a forest is being constructed by planting five saplings with the same name. Along with this, Rashi Vana, Navagraha Vana, and Butterfly Park are also being constructed, informed Social Forestry Division DFO Manjunath Navi.
Seating arrangements have already been made by the Social Forestry Committee next to the lake. One cottage is being constructed by the artists in the shape of a mushroom. The entire work will be completed in another one month and inaugurated soon, he added.
Amidst the lush greenery, Bheemkol Lake has become an attraction for nature lovers. The lake, the lush greenery all around, and the serene atmosphere make this destination a must-visit for visitors in the evening and early morning.
Bheemkol Lake, which has been developed in a phased manner, is now receiving tourists from all over the country. Officials said that they would also try to make boating arrangements in the coming days at the site, which will help increase tourist activities.
The lake, which was taken care of by the previous CEO, is now a tourist destination. Our Social Forestry Committee has undertaken other Development including Panchavati Vana to create awareness about the environment and will be completed in a month. The maintenance will then be handed over to the local Forest Committee, said Social Forestry Division DFO Manjunath Navi.