For the conservation of lakes, the State government is preparing a master plan. Efforts are being made to properly conserve and develop the Upper lake, which is considered as lifeline of Bhopal, writes Team Viva
The State government is making concentrated efforts for beautification of the State capital, especially the lakes. Urban Administration and Development (UAD) Minister Babulal Gaur has been making efforts to beautify the State capital ever since he assumed office. Even when he was the Chief Minister, he visited several foreign countries to find out ways to develop lakes of Bhopal. He is probably the only Minister in the State government who regularly visits different parts of the city along with Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials so that the city can be developed properly.
For the conservation of lakes, the State government is preparing a master plan. Efforts are being made to properly conserve and develop the Upper lake, which is considered as lifeline of Bhopal. Recently, at State Mantralaya, Chief Secretary R Parasuram reviewed the master plan and different works being carried out for preservation and augmentation of Bhopal's Upper lake (Bhoj Tal). In the meeting, the Chief Secretary was informed in detail about the master plan being chalked out in four phases. The master plan is being chalked out by SEPT, Ahmadabad. First report has been prepared. Parasuram sought information about important works pertaining to the Upper lake like installation of meshes at various places to prevent waste falling into the lake, lighting arrangements, landscape, etc.
He directed that all necessary works for lake's beauty be completed at the earliest and preservation and cleanliness work be carried out before the completion of the master plan. The Chief Secretary directed Various suggestions were given during the meeting. According to current master plan, the municipality covers 697 square kilometers. There are two main lakes in the city, known as the Upper lake (now renamed as Bhojtal) and the lower lake. locally, these are known as the Bada Talab and Chota Talab, respectively. The catchment area of the Upper lake is 360 square km while that of the lower lake is 9.6 square km. The Upper lake drains into the Kolar River. The Van Vihar National Park is situated besides the Upper lake.
UAD Minister Babulal Gaur along with Mayor Krishna Gaur and BMC officials, including Commissioner Vishesh Gadpale in the past one month visited more than half the city, inspecting the development works. Gaur instructed that a fountain be installed at the old tower and greenery be developed along the wall from Sheetal Das ki Baghia to ITC Park.During inspection, the Minister instructed that the beauty of historical structures along the lake be maintained. He also ordered that the heritage walls and structures be renovated. Necessary repair work on the walls should be done and properly illumination should be installed to enhance their attractiveness.
Besides, efforts are underway to project the Boat Club on the banks of the Upper lake on the national tourism map. Several arrangements are being made to make the Boat Club more attractive and provide more tourist facilities over there. An old railway steam engine has been installed at the Boat Club by the Railways. Besides, attractive lights, pathways and lawns have been developed there and Yacht Club has been renovated with the assistance of the Central and State governments. Besides this engine, cruise boat is operating in the Upper lake and a Shivalik naval ship's model has been installed along the lake. These spots have been developed as tourism spots in the State capital. Efforts are being made by the State Government for development of the Boat Club.
For the development of lower lake, the government is constructing a pathway from Fish Aquarium to Khatlapura temple. A 1-km-long pathway is being constructed by the Municipal Corporation. Besides, a kayaking and canoeing centre is also being constructed on the banks of lower lake near the Fish Aquarium. The State Tourism Development Corporation officials have been asked to beautify ghats of old Khatlapura temple. A new boat club at Neelam Park has already been started.
Other attractions in Bhopal:
lakshmi Narayana Temple: It is dedicated to Goddess lakshmi. As per the Hindu religious beliefs, Goddess lakshmi is considered the Goddess of Wealth and lord Vishnu or Narayana, the preserver of the universe. The temple is located on the southern part of the lower lake on the Arera Hills of Bhopal. The capital city of Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh is located amidst a pictorial setting. The city is also known as the city of lakes. The huge temple with a panoramic landscape adds to its beauty.
Moti Masjid: This mosque is situated in the heart of Bhopal city and is also known as the Pearl Mosque. A well - known landmark of Bhopal, Moti Masjid was built in 1860 under instructions of Sikandar Jehan Begum, the renowned daughter of Qudisiya Begum. The impressive structure is beautifully designed and resembles the Jama Masjid of Delhi in its architecture and patterns.
Shaukat Mahal: This building is situated at the entrance of the bustling chowk area of Bhopal city where once existed the old city of Shahjehanabad. The Mahal is a melting pot of oriental and occidental styles of art and architecture. It is believed that the idea of Shaukat Mahal was conceived by a Frenchman who is supposed to be a descendant of the renowned Bourbon dynasty of France.
Bharat Bhawan: This multi-art complex was established in 1982 as a cultural complex to promote creative and performing arts. It enjoys a significant place among the national institutes of India. The center was planned by the notable architect Charles Correa. The architectural plan of the cultural complex is very unique and innovative with a number of low buildings constructed around the banks of the lake. Bharat Bhavan is situated in Shamla hills, which is on the banks of a lake. It is one of the most well known centers in India involved in the conservation of traditional folk culture and art. To promote and preserve Indian art and literature a number of museums have been built in the complex which are as follows: