Mysuru: The picturesque Kukkarahalli Lake, long favored by walkers and fitness lovers, is losing its charm due to poor infrastructure and lack of essential amenities.
Stretching over 4.5 km, the walking trail sees over 6,000 visitors daily, but the conditions are far from ideal. Despite the presence of four toilets along the route, locals say none are functional. “The washrooms are in such a sorry state that no one dares use them,” shared a regular walker.
Safety is another growing concern. The lake premises have only three CCTV cameras, all located at the entrance. The rest of the trail — especially critical during the evening hours — remains unmonitored. When a local inspection was carried out post-sunset, it revealed inadequate lighting and a lack of visible security. Just four guards are deployed to cover the entire stretch, leaving large portions vulnerable.
The pathway is also deteriorating. Soil erosion has exposed many stones along the banks, making parts of the walk unsafe and uneven, particularly for senior citizens.
Dayanand Sagar, convenor of Mysore Grahakara Parishat, said, “Thousands visit this lake daily, yet basic facilities are missing. It’s especially hard for the elderly.”
Responding to the concerns, Umesh, assistant executive engineer at the University of Mysore, which oversees the lake, said the issues are being addressed. Repairs for the toilets are underway, new lighting is being installed, and advanced CCTV cameras will soon be added to improve surveillance.