Introduction
Assam is well-endowed with many water bodies. This is one of the reasons why we find a wide range of biodiversity including numerous varieties of endangered fishes and other water fowls. These water bodies are also used for agriculture, transportation and other industrial activities. However, in this article we are going to embark on a journey of discovering the splendid man-made ponds of Assam and its importance and potential as tourist spots.
Assam, a jewel in the north-eastern corner of India, is home to many picturesque man-made ponds that not only serve as reservoirs but also stand as a testament to human’s ingenuity in harnessing nature’s beauty. These ponds, in addition to hosting a wide range of wildlife, also provide a scenic getaway for residents of the states as well as those visiting the state.
So, whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer, a nature enthusiast, or just a leisure-seeking traveller like me, Assam’s man-made ponds promise an unforgettable experience for all. A lot of these ponds have stories to tell – of history, culture and heritage. Let us uncover some of them through this blog post.
Notable Man-Made Ponds Of Assam
1. Dighalipukhuri, Guwahati
Nestled in the heart of Guwahati and a place that holds special significance to the students of Cotton College and Handique College, Dighalipukhuri has an ancient legend associated with it. It is believed to have been constructed by an ancient king who led the Kauravas in the Battle of Kurukshetra during the Mahabharata- king Bhagadatta. The tank was dug by him during the svayamvara of his daughter, Bhanumati.
The Ahoms used it as a naval dockyard but it’s access to the Brahmaputra was eventually closed. Another striking feature of this man-made pond of Assam is that it is surrounded by several important places like The Gauhati High Court, Assam State Museum, the planeterium etc. One can also find a myriad of places nearby to eat and relax with new cafes and restaurants opening up which gives the place a bustling atmosphere.
2. Joysagar Tank, Sivasagar
Located 5kms from Sivasagar town, Joysagar tank is a picturesque man-made pond in Assam with great historical significance. It was built during the rule of esteemed Ahom king Rudra Singha in loving memory of his mother Joymoti Konwari, who was killed by royalists for not disclosing the whereabouts of her exiled husband.
On the northern bank, numerous temples draw regular visits from the local population. Joysagar tank stands out as one of Sivasagar’s premier tourist spots, drawing large crowds. In the winter, the lake becomes a haven for hundreds of migratory birds, making it a prime location for bird watching during this season.
Joysagar Tank holds significant cultural and historical importance in Assam and draws visitors from around the globe. The lake and its environs provide insight into the rich history and cultural heritage of the Ahom dynasty, which governed the region for many centuries. The optimal time to explore the lake is during the winter season when the climate is delightful and migratory birds are abundant.
3. Gaurisagar Tank, Sivasagar
Gaurisagar Tank, situated approximately 12 km from the heart of Sibsagar town, stands as a prominent man-made lake in Assam. Constructed around 200 years ago, this historical site encompasses three temples devoted to Goddess Durga and her various manifestations on its shores. Dating back to the eighteenth century, the tank and its accompanying temples were commissioned by Bar Raja Phuleswari Konwari, former queen of the Ahom Kingdom.
Gaurisagar Tank spans an expansive area of approximately 150 acres and is flanked by three temples – the Durga Temple, Vishnu Temple, and Shiva Temple. Each day, numerous devotees flock to these temples to present their prayers. Additionally, the tank serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists, who frequent the site for picnics. During the Bihu festival, the entire area buzzes with excitement as people gather to revel in the celebrations. Notably, the widespread recognition of this location as Gaurisagar is attributed to the presence of the tank and the trio of temples.
4. Umrangso Reservoir, Dima Hasao
Umrangso reservoir is located in Umrangso town which is located 120 kms from Haflong in the Dima Hasao district of Assam. It is a man-made reservoir built out of a dam constructed by NEEPCO across Kopili river.
Along with serving other needs, the reservoir offers unparalleled natural scenery, creating an ideal environment for tourists to enjoy the lush greenery and birdlife surrounding the lake. One can take quick detour to Umrangso reservoir when visiting Haflong, the only hill station in Assam.
Conclusion
The man-made ponds in Assam offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and ingenuity. These serene water bodies not only serve as vital sources of irrigation and fisheries but also stand as important cultural and historical landmarks. Their creation and preservation signify the harmonious coexistence of human innovation with the surrounding environment. Visitors to Assam’s man-made ponds are treated to not only breathtaking views but also a deeper understanding of the region’s rich heritage and the value of sustainable water management. As these ponds continue to draw in tourists and locals alike, they remain indispensable to Assam’s landscape and identity. Therefore, it is extremely crucial for both government and the general population to be conscious about protecting these water bodies. Visitors must be careful about keeping the surrounding areas clean and not litter in these magnificent wonders of human creation. After all, we are the stewards of our planet, and it is our responsibility to keep our nature clean and pure.
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