 |
History & Significance
History
The area where the Powai Lake now is was originally Powai valley, which comprised of a central village and small groups of huts surrounding it. The British authorities created a lake in 1891 by building two dams across the Mithi River in an attempt to control and provide water supply to the city of Bombay (now Mumbai). The Maharashtra State Angling Association (then called Bombay Presidency Angling Association), formed in 1936, currently controls and manages the lake. A project called 'Revitalization of Powai Lake' (courtesy the 1980 batch of IIT Mumbai) was initiated with the aim of restoring its natural beauty using eco-friendly measures. In 1995, The National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) included Powai Lake among the 'ten main lakes' of the country to be revived and improved. This program was launched in April, 2002 and was implemented by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation or BMC (earlier called Bombay Municipal Corporation). As a result of this move, the condition of the lake has considerably improved.
Attractions
Powai Lake is an artificial lake and the hills surrounding it make it an apt place to relax and take a break from the busy chores of life. To get a clearer picture of the lake and its surroundings, a boat ride is organized which is quite a tranquil experience. There is also 'Powai Lake Garden' where you can sit and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. Another major attraction of this lake is that it is situated close to the luxurious Hiranandani gardens.
Rich Fauna And Flora
The diverse flora and fauna of this location are the most interesting attractions of the Powai Lake. This lake is infested with crocodiles that can be seen along the shore of the lake in large numbers and are easily spotted by fisherman. The other animals seen here are spot-billed duck, small blue kingfisher, white-throated kingfisher, spotted dove, brahminy kite, purple-rumped sunbirds, white browned bulbuls, peregrine falcon, woolly-necked stork and many other species of animals. Also, there is a gorgeous carpet of Balsam bushes, which is seen as a beautiful carpet of an attractive pink-purple combination after its blossoms.
How To Reach
In order to reach Powai Lake, you may either go through King's Circle, Sion, followed by Kurla or take a different route via Santa Cruz and Andheri. If you are travelling by road, the lake is situated at a distance of 40 km from Mumbai. Kanjur Marg railway station is the nearest railway head to Powai Lake.
With all the attractions mentioned above, Powai Lake is indeed a wonderful tourist spot. This, along with the pristine surroundings, makes this place a paradise. So, do not spare this wonderful experience whenever you visit Mumbai.