Mahamastakabhisheka: Water sports launched at Janivara Lake

District in-charge Minister A Manju, on Monday, said that boating and water sports have been launched at Janivara Lake as part of Mahamastakabhisheka, which will attract visitors at the Jain pilgrimage shrine, to be a part of the event.

After launching boating and adventure water sports facilities, developed at a cost of Rs 50 lakh by the Tourism department, at Janivara Lake, he said, "Boating and water sports is an addition to the 88th Mahamastakabhishka, which would benefit tourists. Boating and adventure sports would be made permanent. However, Rs 5 lakh more is required for its development."

At present, there are eight types of boating facilities, and more varieties would be introduced in future. The price of tickets would be decided soon, he said.

MLA C N Balakrishna said, "As boating has been started in the lake, it would affect the fishermen of the region. Arrangements would be made for them to give permission for fishing in nearby lakes."

Cauvery Neeravari Nigam has released Rs 2 crore to release water to the Janivara Lake throughout the year. However, desilting works should be taken up in the lake, he said.

Deputy Commissioner Rohini Sindhuri said that sand has been brought from Mangaluru and filled on the lakeside to provide a good atmosphere.

MLC M A Gopalaswamy, Mahamastakabhisheka Mahotsava National Committee president Saritha Jain, Special Officer B N Varaprasad Reddy, and Tahsildar Somashekar were present.

Can hire motorbike

Minister Manju also launched the motorbike hiring facility, which would cost Rs 150 per day. Those who hire the motorbike can visit the religious shrines and other places in Channaraypatna. The facility is available from morning to evening.