Mandya: The historic Sulekere lake in Maddur taluk of Mandya district is undergoing a major transformation into a ‘Mini KRS’ destination as part of a large-scale rejuvenation project aimed at boosting tourism and water conservation.The project, estimated at nearly Rs 100 crore, has gathered pace, with tenders worth Rs 82 crore already floated. Maddur MLA Kadalur Udaya Gowda said the lake may also be rechristened to reflect its renewed identity and upgraded status as a tourism hub.Situated between Kannali, Ambarahalli and Madarahalli villages, Sulekere — once among the largest lakes in the district — had suffered extensive encroachments by nearby farmers. Authorities have now cleared nearly 300 acres of illegally occupied land, restoring a significant portion of the lake.The lake covers about 1,000 acres and has a circumference of roughly 12.5 km, underscoring its ecological and historical significance. A major attraction is its 1.1-km-long embankment, which offers panoramic views similar to the Krishnaraja Sagar dam, earning Sulekere the ‘Mini KRS’ tag.Desilting work is progressing at a brisk pace, with officials saying the project is likely to be completed by June or July. Once restored, the lake is expected to improve water storage capacity and provide a reliable water source for more than 20 surrounding villages.The project combines lake restoration with tourism development and is expected to strengthen local water security while placing Sulekere on Karnataka’s tourism map.
