'Jalapatha Utsav' attracts thousands of tourists

Mysore, Aug 26 (UNI) The two-day Jalapatha Utsav (festival of water falls) which began yesterday at the famous Gaganachukki falls at Shivanasamudram in Mandya District attracted thousands of tourists.

The Gaganachukki falls, considered as one of the 83 Water Falls in the world, with an amazing sight of the massive water column plummeting down the steep cliff with a spectacular and unending roar attracts thousands of tourists every year.

The fall was at its full splendour due to the release of water from both Karishnarajasagar (KRS) and Kabini reservoirs since the water levels have reached full capacity.

Conceptualized by Karnataka Minister for Kannada and Culture H S Mahadeva Prasad, the Festival of Water Falls, was a grand success.

The Minister announced that the government would spend Rs 96 crore for the development of various waterfalls, including 12 waterfalls which had been identified.

Stating that similar Festival of Water Falls would be held in other parts of the state to give a fillip to tourism, he said plans were afoot to take up construction of a hanging bridge between Barachukki and Gaganachukki.

Speaking on the occasion, Mandya District Incharge Minister Chaluvarayaswamy said as the response for the festival was very good, the District Administration would continue illumination during weekends in places of tourist attraction.

UNI