The state of Maharashtra is situated in the western part of India. It has the distinction of being the third-largest and the second-most populous state of India. The geographical terrain of this state is characterized by major rivers, palm-fringed beaches, islands and mountains. Geographical feature called lakes also form a part of Maharashtra. They have not only beautified this state, but also serve various other purposes.
Powai Lake
Powai Lake is situated in Mumbai in the Powai Valley. This lake has poor quality of water, which is unfit for drinking. Eutrophication of the lake water from untreated sewage and garbage from nearby residential and slum colonies are reasons behind the deterioration of its water quality. 4500 lakh cubic meters of silt deposits in the lake has also threatened it. The lake is presently utilized for gardening, cattle washing and fishing. Population around the lake has increased due to development of housing complexes and plush hotels around the periphery of the lake.
Salim Ali Lake
Salim Ali Lake is situated near Delhi Gate, opposite Himayat Bagh in Aurangabad. In order to bring about an increment in the water holding capacity of this lake, it has been dredged for silt. Boating is a fun filled possibility on this lake when it is full during the rainy and winter seasons. This lake is an ideal site for bird lovers. Rare and rich biodiversity at the lake site and its surrounding has stimulated initiatives by the environmental activists and bird lovers in the city to conserve it.
Upvan Lake
Upvan Lake is located in Thane. This lake has a surface area of about 500 square kilometers. It was constructed by a person named J.K. Singhania. Sanskruti Arts Festival is an event celebrated at the lake site.
Venna Lake
Venna Lake is situated in Mahabaleshwar. Shri Appasaheb Maharaj is credited with the establishment of this lake, who is recognized as the Raja of Satara. Tourists can engage themselves in boating on the lake and horse riding next to the lake. The banks of the lake have also been provided with a number of small eateries.
Rankala Lake
Rankala Lake is situated in Kolhapur district. It has been named Rankala as the temple of Rankabhairav is situated at its centre. This lake was established by Chhatrapatis of Kolhapur. This wide and spacious lake is open to boating and horse riding. It is threatened by sewage pollution due to discharge of nallahs from nearby residential areas.
Other Lakes of Maharashtra
Shivsagar Lake, Lonar Crater Lake and Khindsi Lake are some of the other Lakes of Maharashtra.
