Belgaum’s lung space is the enchanting water body known as ‘Kote Kere’ (Fort Lake) right opposite the historic Belgaum Fort built in 1204. It is within easy reach of the Central Bus Station (CBT) at the outskirts of the city.
I was pleasantly surprised to see a person collecting debris such as plastic bottles, sheets and cups from the lakeshore and dumping them into waste bins for disposal by the Belgaum Corporation. The shimmering waters were clean and devoid of any floating debris.
It was morning and a few walkers were strolling on the paved pathway next to the shore. The lake is fenced to prevent animals from straying into the lake area. There is a play area for children with a toy train, slides, merry-go-around and so on, though it’s doubtful whether some of them are still in a working condition.
There is a boating facility here as well. I could see a few water birds that have made the lake their home. A few dhabas and cafes are located outside the gate.