Subhash Sarovar

Kolkata, West Bengal

Subhash Sarovar

Location: Kolkata, West Bengal
Category: Lakes

About

Subhash Sarovar, also known as Beliaghata Lake, is a significant artificial lake and public recreational area located in the eastern part of Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Spanning approximately 73 acres, the lake and its surrounding parkland offer a serene environment for residents and visitors alike. Named in honor of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, Subhash Sarovar serves as a vital green space in Kolkata, offering recreational opportunities while contributing to the city's ecological and cultural landscape. The lake complex includes well-paved walking tracks, landscaped gardens, and seating areas, making it a popular spot for morning walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts, and also attracts various migratory and resident bird species, offering opportunities for bird watching.

History & Background

Subhash Sarovar, also known as Beliaghata Lake, was created as an artificial lake and public recreational area in the eastern part of Kolkata. The lake is named in honor of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, reflecting the city's respect for its freedom fighters. Over the years, the lake and its surroundings have undergone beautification and ecological restoration efforts by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) to improve water quality and enhance biodiversity. Like many urban water bodies, Subhash Sarovar has faced challenges such as pollution and encroachments, but restoration initiatives have been undertaken, including desilting and aeration, to improve water quality and enhance biodiversity. In 2020, 36 trees uprooted by Cyclone Amphan were replanted in the area to preserve its ecological balance, demonstrating ongoing conservation efforts. The lake serves as a site for cultural and religious activities, including Chhath Puja, which attracts thousands of devotees annually, further enhancing its cultural significance. Subhash Sarobar continues to stand as a vital green space in Kolkata, offering recreational opportunities while contributing to the city's ecological and cultural landscape.

Key Features & Attractions

  • 73-Acre Lake and Parkland: A significant artificial lake spanning approximately 73 acres with surrounding parkland

  • Walking Tracks: Well-paved walking tracks for morning walkers and joggers

  • Landscaped Gardens: Beautifully landscaped gardens providing a serene environment

  • Seating Areas: Seating areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings

  • Bird Watching: Attracts various migratory and resident bird species, offering opportunities for bird watching

  • Cultural Activities: Serves as a site for cultural and religious activities, including Chhath Puja

  • Ecological Restoration: Ongoing restoration efforts including desilting and aeration to improve water quality and enhance biodiversity

  • Green Space: Vital green space contributing to Kolkata's ecological balance

Activities & Highlights

  • Morning walking and jogging along the well-paved tracks

  • Bird watching and observing migratory and resident bird species

  • Relaxing in the landscaped gardens and seating areas

  • Picnicking in the parkland areas

  • Attending cultural and religious activities including Chhath Puja

  • Photography of the lake, birds, and natural scenery

  • Enjoying the serene environment and green space

  • Appreciating the ecological restoration efforts and biodiversity

Location & Connectivity

  • Location: Beliaghata area, eastern part of Kolkata, West Bengal, India, adjacent to the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass)

  • Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 14 km

  • Major Railway Stations:

    • Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 4 km

    • Howrah Railway Station – approx. 10 km

    • Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 6 km

  • Metro Station: Salt Lake Stadium Metro Station (Green Line) – directly accessible, located about 0.46 km away (approximately 5-minute walk), providing convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network

  • EM Bypass: Adjacent to the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, providing excellent road connectivity

Subhash Sarovar is strategically located in the Beliaghata area, adjacent to the EM Bypass, making it easily accessible from various parts of Kolkata and well-connected to major transportation hubs.

Communication & Transport Modes

Subhash Sarovar is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The lake is located in the Beliaghata area, adjacent to the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EM Bypass), which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center and surrounding areas. The Salt Lake Stadium Metro Station on the Kolkata Metro's Green Line is directly accessible, located about 0.46 km away (approximately 5-minute walk), providing convenient access via the metro network. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area, with bus routes readily available along the EM Bypass. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. Subhash Sarovar is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah (just 4 km away), Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The lake's location adjacent to the EM Bypass and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible and a popular destination for morning walkers, joggers, nature enthusiasts, and visitors seeking recreational activities and a peaceful green space in the heart of the city.

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