Agara Lake set for major makeover as Bengaluru plans new water adventure sports hub

Speed-boating, jet skiing, kayaking and upgraded amenities are set to transform Agara Lake into a major recreational hotspot by early 2026, even as environmental concerns grow.

Bengaluru is preparing to add a fresh attraction to its tourism map as Agara Lake, located near Kaggalipura Road, is set to be turned into a full-fledged water adventure sports zone. The Minor Irrigation Department and the Tourism Department have partnered to develop the project, aiming to give the city a rare combination of urban leisure and water-based adventure.

Spread across nearly 98 acres, Agara Lake, locally known as Agar Sarovar, already serves as a major rainwater catchment for Koramangala, HSR Layout and surrounding areas. Its 2.1-2.3 km walking track is a regular attraction for residents, but the upcoming makeover will dramatically expand its recreational offerings.

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In the first phase, authorities plan to introduce speed-boating, jet skiing and kayaking. While the government will develop core infrastructure, private operators selected through a tender process will manage the activities, supply equipment, train visitors and ensure safety. Each selected operator will be given a five-year contract and operations are expected to begin by early 2026.

Considering the safety requirements of water-based adventure sports, the government has sought technical guidance from the General Thimmaiah National Academy of Adventure (GETHNA) and the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS). Their inputs will influence rescue systems, emergency protocols and training standards. Life jackets, trained lifeguards, strict safety markings and emergency response units will be compulsory.

Alongside adventure sports, the Tourism Department is planning major visitor-friendly upgrades. Facilities such as washrooms, changing rooms, lockers, feeding rooms for mothers and dedicated parking areas will be built. Plastic will be banned around the lake, and private operators must ensure daily waste clearance to prevent pollution.

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However, the initiative has raised concerns among environmentalists. Retired IISc professor KS Sangunni has questioned whether trees will be cut to accommodate new structures and stressed that lake ecosystems must not be disturbed. Local residents have also expressed worries about sewage management once tourism activity increases. Activists are calling for community consultation before construction progresses.

Meanwhile, Bengaluru’s broader lake system is witnessing other developments. Doddabommasandra Lake and Rachenahalli Lake have received approval for solar power projects that will generate 1 MW of electricity for lake upkeep. Strong monsoon rains have also revived water levels across the city, with 63 of the 183 BBMP-managed lakes now completely full, up from just three in April.