Gangapuja at Lake
Tumakuru
Following recent heavy rains, the Maralur Amanikere in Tumakuru city has filled up completely, prompting a traditional Gangapuja and Bagina offering by MLA G.B. Jyothiganesh on Tuesday morning. The ceremony was held in the presence of village head Ashok Kumar, former corporator Dharanendrakumar, and several residents of Maralur and nearby villages.
Addressing the gathering, MLA Jyothiganesh said the Maralur Amanikere has filled up for the third time in nearly 25 to 30 years. “Last year too, the lake overflowed due to heavy rains, and we offered Bagina then. Once again, the lake’s fullness is a blessing for farmers,” he said. The MLA added that this will benefit villages such as Gangasandra, Maralur, and Kummanjipalya, as rising groundwater levels will improve water availability in borewells and farmlands.
He further stated that the lake would soon be used to supply drinking water to Tumakuru city. Plans are underway to desilt the lake, channel Hemavathi river water into it, and construct a purification unit at Melukote Tuda grounds to serve southern parts of the city.
Former corporator Dharanendrakumar said Maralur Amanikere is the lifeline for local farmers and has deep traditional significance. He urged the government to build a retaining wall along the Kunigal Road running over the lake bund and to construct a Kalyani near the overflow area to maintain safety and cleanliness.
Officials from the Minor Irrigation Department, including Executive Engineer Moodlagiriyappa, Assistant Engineer Tippeswamy, and many villagers participated in the ceremony.
