By Devram Prasad Yadav
Saptari, Feb. 8: Sprawling across an area of 11.9 hectare, the Lohajara Lake of Tirhut Rural Municpality-5, Saptari, is establishing itself as a burgeoning touristic hub.
The lake, which hitherto remained unsullied, has finally drawn the attention of both local level and Province government as a possible tourist attraction.
Smitten by its new-found allure is local journalist Dinanath Yadav. “It’s hard not to stop by and marvel at the beauty of Lohajara, the surrounding protected forest area, and the mesmerising lake itself,” he said.
Apart from domestic visitors, the lake has also been able to lure tourists all the way from India. The site is especially crowded during the weekends where majority of Tirhut residents flock the premises to relax in the midst of the calm lake.
Since the Gregorian New Year and the subsequent cold, Lohajara has recently become a picnic spot for large groups of people to gather, and celebrate auspicious occasions or simply enjoy a sumptuous lunch while basking in the winter sun. The lake also plays host to official visits and school field trips, particularly on Friday and Saturday.
“Renowned among the locals as Thakur Baba Tal, this destination is now replete with facilities for visitors. Shades have been constructed for picnic enthusiasts with appropriate garbage maintenance facilities. Likewise, there are other services such as drinking water, rest rooms as well as boating options,” informed Ward Chairman Ramnanda Chaudhary.
Adjoining the Chure Forest, which is spread across 8.13 hectares, the lake is also home to Rohu, Catla, Common Carb, and a host of other fishes. The lake also boasts of Thakur Baba temple along the bank, boating experience, exotic species of birds, and the surrounding jungle – all of which add to the pristine beauty of the lake.
“The infrastructural development and promotion of the lake began during the time of former Social Development Minister Nawal Kishore Sah of Province 2,” said Chaudhary. According to him, the
Community Development Ministry paved tiles from the entrance gate to the lake, while the Rural Municipality built other structures, and the entrance gate.
“Within just a few years, this lake will be transformed as major touristic destination, and will set an example as a model lake for other similar destinations,” claimed Chaudhary.