Hubli
In Hubli-Dharwad, soaring temperatures have driven many youths to take drastic measures to escape the heat. Jumping into Unkal Lake has become a popular but concerning trend, as the lack of barriers or fencing on the left side of the lake allows easy access.
The heat of the Sun is so intense that it is not possible to sit at home without fans and air conditioners.
Most of the primary school students have completed their examinations, and they are also coming to the Unkal Lake to beat the heat by diving into the lake. The scorching heat has not only harmed humans but livestock as well. So, the youth who visit the lake will also take cattle along with them. Many youths take baths, along with the cattle, to get some relief from the heat.
However, the lake’s depth poses a serious risk, prompting fears of potential tragedies. Urgent action from corporation officials is needed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Unkal Lake covers about 200 acres and is the crowning glory of the Hubli-Dharwad city. A beautiful garden has been built around it, and hundreds of tourists visit it daily, especially on weekends. The lake has been developed by spending crores of rupees under the Hubli-Dharwad Smart City project. However, the lake lacks barriers or adequate fences on the left side and many children swim in it every day. Swimmers, not wishing to disclose their names, said that they had been coming to swim in the lake for the past 15 days. The temperature levels increase day by day. I came to the lake to swim to get relief from the scorching heat, they added.
Meanwhile, HDMC Commissioner Ishwar Ullagaddi told that swimming or playing at Unkal Lake is not allowed. The Smart City Limited is developing the lake. Also, plans are afoot to put up barriers to prevent people from swimming in the lake. Action will be taken to ensure that no one jumps into the lake, he added.
