The Neglected Lake of Mount Abu: A Cry for Help

Exploring the Enchanting Nakki Lake: A Jewel of Mount Abu.

Nakki Lake Mount Abu.
Photo per kind favour Harry(Harnam)

Nakki Lake when neglected 

Oh, the lake of Mount Abu, once pristine and blue, now murky and green, is a sad sight to be seen. Tourists flock to its shore, but do they see it anymore? Dumping their trash without a care, they cannot spare the lake's beauty. Oh, the lake of Mount Abu, once a jewel in the view, is now a victim of neglect. It is the fate we must resurrect. Let us join hands and make a vow to save this lake, starting now, by cleaning up after ourselves, and taking care of its waters and shelves. Oh, the lake of Mount Abu, may it shine again anew, a place of peace and beauty, for all to enjoy.

Mount Abu, a tranquil hill station in Rajasthan, India, is well-known for its natural beauty and serene settings. Over the past ten years, the town has turned into a thriving tourist hub, with diverse hotels, guesthouses, and cafes appearing to accommodate the influx of visitors. Unfortunately, the town's most famous feature, Nakki Lake, has suffered because of the inflow of tourists.

The Gracia tribe considers Nakki Lake in Mount Abu sacred. They gather there during their festival in April or May to honour their ancestors. The lake also holds a particular place in the hearts of the Abuites, who have grown up visiting it, feeding the ducks and admiring the scenery. Unfortunately, the lake has fallen into neglect, and its condition is poor.

The once beautiful lake, which drew poets, hikers, and lovelorn couples, now reflects neglect. Rubbish and filth surround the lake, and the water is dark and sluggish. The lake's suffering has had little influence on the local Abuites or local officials, who appear to have turned a blind eye to its misery.

Mount Abu's water supply is exclusively dependent on the smaller Khodra dam, while the upper Khodra dam is nearly inoperable. Mount Abu relies on the water from Nakki Lake throughout the summer and during times of scarcity. Even after passing through the filter house, this polluted water remains a serious source of worry.

They must save as soon this gorgeous lake as possible. They must provide permanent remedies, as well as heavy penalties for anybody who pollutes the environment of this location. Building little parks and beautifying the lake will not alleviate the problem of lake water quality. To maintain the lake clean, strict laws must be established for both visitors and residents.

Aside from that, it is important to educate local inhabitants on the significance of protecting the lake's environment. We must educate residents on the need to protect water quality and the negative consequences of contaminating the lake. They can accomplish this through education and awareness efforts.

To summarise, the Mount Abu water crisis is a severe issue that demands an immediate response from all parties. Both Abuites and tourists need to conserve the lake's surroundings and preserve its natural riches. If we work together and take proactive steps to protect the environment and conserve water, we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for Mount Abu.

Selfie point I love Mount Photo per kind favour Harry(Harnam)

Boating on the Nakki Lake Photo per kind favour Harry(Harnam)

Garbage in the lake Photo per kind favour Harry(Harnam)

Nakki Lake at sunset
Photo per kind favour Harry(Harnam)

Christmas in the year of the Pandemic. Mount Abu.(22/12/2020 )

 "There's no place like home for your Christmas bash in this pandemic year."

Mount Abu 22 Dec 2020.

Celebrations for Christmas will be low-key, just like our other festivals. COVID-19 has put a damper on all Social gatherings and mass merrymaking. This year the traditional midnight mass on the eve of Christmas that ushers in the celebrations of Christmas will not happen because of guidelines laid down by social distancing guidelines.

It's jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way oh, one slip in social distancing, will destroy your ride, and send you packing in an ambulance to the gateway to .......!

Every time a bell rings, the coronavirus goes for a swing, 

Every time we hear cheers, the virus looks at us with fear,

The lights on the trees act like beacons wishing you all,

 A stress-free magical holiday season.

Spread your Christmas Cheer, singing loud for all to hear.

"MERRY Christmas"

MERRY Christmas 

Mount Abu presently is not under LOCKDOWN, but social distancing guideline is a must. Tourists who come to Abu for their holiday season adhere to.

>  Avoid physical contact, no hugs or handshakes 

>  Keep your distance in your merrymaking and avoid close face-to-face contact

>. Following the social distancing rules

.> Avoid roaming in large groups. 

>  Abu will levy a fixed fine of Rs 500 for those who do not wear a mask 

>  Buy Your Alcohol will in time to avoid last mine buying as the place outside the liquor shops gets overcrowded, and this is not desirable.

.> Tourists don't forget your woollies as the temperature after sundown drops to 0 at night. 

"BE SAFE BE HAPPY TAKE CARE ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY CHEER"

CHEERS 🥂

Nature at its best with human beings at rest Mount Abu.[ 07/04/2020 ]

COVID-19 Lockdown Lets Wildlife Go Wild 

Damans in Action

Spring is in the air. Nature at its best, it's the time of the year when new life springs forth. Today 18 days into LOCKDOWN confined to our homes. Living on the hillside away from the maddening crowd, doing what I love best-photographing birds and wildlife.

To Watch the Video Above on Mobile click the link below

Damans in Action

Today Mount Abu has entered its 19 days of Lockdown. The hustle and bustle of the unending vehicular movement for the last fortnight has worked its charm on the wildlife of this small hill station. We have spotted leopards in quite a few places. Few sloth bears have ventured onto the outskirts of town. The group of grey langurs who used to depend on tourists for food and frequently visited the road leading to Abu, now forage in the jungle.. (a blessing in disguise). 

Mount Abu isn’t the only sanctuary witnessing nature at play during this lockdown. The Animals are experiencing greater freedom of movement worldwide due to the lockdown. Hopefully, humanity realises it’s never too late to exist in harmony and peace with nature. 

Winter Festival Mount Abu [27/12/ 2019.]

Winter Festival Mount Abu 27 Dec 31 December 2019

Winter Festival December 2019

The Winter Festival has kicked off today. 2 days before previous years. 

Time Table of events 

Time Table of events 

28 December 2019.

Temperature update MT Abu

Last night, the temperature fell below zero.  I'm posting a few photographs sent as a per favour by my neighbour Govind.

The frozen stream in our area

Frozen water pots

Some ice for your drinks!

Beer bottles are left out in the garden, so the next day one is treated to chilled beer pre-lunch

Cheers from Mount Abu.

Merry Christmas from the Abode of the Gods. [ 25/12/2019 ]

Celebrating Christmas in Mount Abu.

This is an excellent time of the year to be on Mount Abu. The weather is delightful during the day and chilly at night. Holidaymakers enjoy touring Abu donned in their woollies.

WELCOME TO MOUNT ABU to celebrate the holiday season

Mounr Abu Winter the place for holidaying and trekking [ 09/12/2019 ]

Embracing the Winter Chill: A Frosty Mount Abu Welcome in December.

Mount Abu, wrapped in the snowy embrace of December, welcomes travellers to a frigid haven as the year comes to a close. The hill station's winter has arrived with a biting touch, with daytime temperatures ranging around 15-20 degrees Celsius and evenings dropping below the 10-degree level. Prepare for temperatures to drop to -3 degrees Celsius, bringing in the bewitching presence of frost that transforms the environment into a winter wonderland.

Temp at 5 am Mount Abu 

Our season's first frost 

December 7, 2019: 

Mount Abu emerges from the cloud cover to show its coldest night of the season. On December 7, 2019, the temperature dropped to a bone-chilling 2.4 degrees Celsius at night. Even when the clock approached 8 a.m., the temperature stayed stable at approximately 3 degrees. Winter's icy fingers have left their imprint, gracing the town with a fine layer of frost, heralding the entrance of the coldest season. We greet Mount Abu with wide arms and send a warm welcome.

The chilly air and frost-kissed surroundings create a tranquil and magical environment as we experience the winter chill in Mount Abu. Whether you're a native or a visitor looking for the attraction of snowy vistas, Mount Abu in December guarantees a memorable experience. So wrap up warm and be ready to enjoy the beauty of frosty mornings and frigid evenings in this scenic hill town. Welcome to Mount Abu, where winter weaves its spell, leaving you with fond recollections of a well-embraced season.

Mount Abu municipal elections results [ 19/11/2019.]

Congress wins with a clear majority.

The victors A Big Congratulations

The congress in the municipal local elections today secured a clear majority over its political rivals here in Mount Abu. Out of the 25 seats, Congress secured 18 seats. The BJP got 6 seats and one seat went to the account of independents.

To see the details of the elected representatives click on the link below

WATCH EXCLUSIVE Mt. Abu Local Election 

St. Mary's High School Parents Week [ 16/10/ 2019 ] Mount Abu

Notice Parents week St. Mary's High School

Parents planning to spend the Holidays here in Abu should be aware that night temperature dip to around 15 degrees and below. 

Mount Abu Gears up to enforce its Anti plastic Drive. 15 August 2019

Plastic controls Mount Abu. Meet your apocalyptic
They littered each additional resolution with the will to follow up.
WISHING ALL A JOYOUS INDEPENDENCE DAY!

To learn more about the plastic ban, click the links below.

Anti-Plastic Drive, Mount Abu.

A complete ban on plastic items 

A flashback to my take on the plastic menace 

Monsoon update 9 August 2019 Mount Abu

Mount Abu is glad the rain gods have smiled down on the Abode.

First Monsoon for Macy watching the rising water

Water gushing down our main valley (snap via WhatsApp)

The video received per kind favour Raman 

Yesterday all evening, there was a buildup of heavy clouds. Late at night, it began raining and by early morning it poured. Streams of Abu began gushing, and the waterfall was a delight to see. The much-awaited nectar of life brought relief to the Abuites, and the trees swayed, beckoning the falling rain. 

Gauge Report Mount Abu 09.08.19, Friday.

🌧 Rain Fall = 5.4 inches.

🌧 Total Rain Fall = 37.7 inches

Just received some snaps via per favour, Ms Trina from the school.

Level Lower Kodra Dam 42 feet 

The dam picture was sent by Ms Trina.

Update water levels 11 August 2019. Abu

Per favour Raman 

Gauge Report Mount Abu 11.08.19, Sunday.

Rainfall = 3 inches

Total Rainfall = 42.2 inches

LK Dam = 44'6"/ 59'

UK Dam = 19'/ 33

Nakki Lake =10.50/12.25M

14 AUGUST 2019

14 AUGUST 2019
Gauge Report Mount Abu 15.08.19, Thursday
Rain Fall= 1.1 inch.
Total Rain Fall=45.1 inch
Upper KodraDam=21'5"/33'
Lower Kodra Dam=47'/59'
Nakki Lake=10.72/12.25M


15 Aug 2019

Gauge Report Mount Abu 16.08.19, Friday.
Rain Fall= 4.7 inches.
Total Rain Fall=49.8 inch
Shaileshabu

The local tribal shifted for comprehensive treatment to Ahmadabad

The brutal attack on a local Tribal by a bear on 20 July 2019 moved to Ahmedabad for treatment. 

Sloth Bear Conflicts on the Rise in Mount Abu: A Call for Practical Measures

In recent years, human-wildlife conflicts in Mount Abu have escalated, with sloth bear encounters becoming a pressing concern. Once elusive creatures of the forest, these bears are now straying into human habitation, leading to tragic and life-altering incidents. On July 20, 2019, a young tribal man was brutally attacked, resulting in disfigurement and the loss of an eye. The young tribal man is currently being treated at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, and this encounter has forever transformed his life, as well as the lives of many others.

These unsettling incidents shine a spotlight on a critical need for Mount Abu to develop comprehensive strategies aimed at minimizing human-bear conflicts. While eliminating these encounters may be unrealistic, practical solutions can reduce the risk.

One of the key factors contributing to these conflicts is the encroachment of human settlements into forested areas and the resulting disruption of the bear's natural habitat. As Mount Abu grows in popularity as a tourist destination, increased foot traffic, waste disposal issues, and habitat fragmentation drive sloth bears closer to populated zones in search of food.

For any meaningful change, a coordinated effort between local authorities, conservationists, and the public is essential. Implementing basic safety guidelines is a critical first step. Educating residents and tourists about bear behaviour, especially during the monsoon season, when they are more active, can save lives. Warning signs and awareness campaigns need to be visible in vulnerable areas, reminding people to avoid trekking at dawn or dusk, when bear activity peaks.

Proper waste management also plays a pivotal role in reducing bear visits to human settlements. Sloth bears are opportunistic feeders, and the improper disposal of food waste only invites them to urban areas. By establishing designated bear-proof garbage zones, both residents and businesses can reduce the likelihood of attracting bears.

Another important consideration is creating safe zones and wildlife corridors, ensuring that sloth bears have sufficient habitat away from human encroachment. This can involve designating areas that are off-limits for human activity, especially near known bear habitats, and implementing stricter regulations on new constructions that may disturb these sensitive areas.

Mount Abu stands at a crossroads. The region has two options: either deal with more conflicts between humans and bears or take proactive and practical steps to create a safer future for both wildlife and people. While sloth bears are an essential part of the local ecosystem, preserving their place within the landscape requires us to create a harmonious coexistence. With collective action, education, and practical steps, Mount Abu can protect its community while respecting the natural world that defines it.

Super Blood Full Moon 21 January 2019 Mount Abu

Super Full Moon on the 21 January 2019

The Wolf Moon

There are only five days before the Super Full Moon on January 21, 2019. The upcoming full moon of this month, referred to as the Wolf Moon, will be called the "Super Blood Wolf Moon." Despite the dramatic name, it has no connection to wolves detecting blood. To my readers, I encourage you to smile and tell your coworkers and friends that you're determined to stay connected this year. Make an effort to offer a joyful welcome, a simple hello, or even a symbolic howl on each full moon in 2019. OWOOOOOO!

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM THE ABODE OF GODS Mount Abu

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM MOUNT ABU

Before I post I would Love To 

SHARE

The voice of an angel. The photography is stunning - this is something to be enjoyed and shared.

BEAUTIFUL RENDITION OF AULD LANG SYNE

To View My Mount Abu Bird Collection Click Below

MOUNT ABU BIRDS 

STOP PLASTIC BE DRASTIC Mount Abu

Abuites STOP PLASTIC BE DRASTIC.

Abu From Achalgarh.

Plastic,  plastic everywhere,

The more you look, the more you despair,

Sand be hanged, the desert is already there.

Plastic deserts and plastic seas are filing our last reserves, 

 Preparing our future generations on a journey unforeseen, 

Of humanity choking and croaking like our animals and sea creatures. 

Due to our lack of no environmental planning and sustainability

We are gonna pay dearly by burying our

Earth's surface in an Eire Foam of plastic wastelands and stinking seas. 

"Everywhere around the world, the future of getting rid of plastic is uncertain; in India, even the implementation of lightweight plastic bags is uncertain." A plastic ban in India has been in effect since 2002, but an estimated 20 cows per 100 die from plastic ingestion.

Can you imagine this scenario? The government banned the use of plastic bags in this little hill station over a decade ago and today when one looks around, all one sees is heaps of rubbish and the majority of it is plastic bags. 

My ardent suggestion is let's build an enormous, Huge Plastic God that touches the sky. So every time we look at it, it opens our eyes and reminds us!

                       “STOP NO MORE PLASTIC OR I WILL BE DRASTIC”

Can India #BeatPlasticPollution With

The Current Plastic Bans In Various States?    More

Deepawali season Mount Abu 2018

Experience Diwali in the Hills: Mount Abu Diwali HOTSPOT.

Parked cars Polo-ground Mount Abu ( snapper kind favour Raj Kumar WhatsApp)

Diwali in Mount Abu is a spectacle unlike any other. The hill station, nestled in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Range, transforms into a vibrant getaway for tourists, especially from the neighbouring state of Gujarat. For many Gujjus, Mount Abu is the ultimate weekend retreat, and during Diwali, it becomes a shining beacon, drawing thousands like moths to a flame.

The combination of fresh mountain air, stunning landscapes, and the freedom to relax without the usual constraints makes Mount Abu an irresistible destination for wine lovers. But with the festive rush comes the inevitable chaos. Traffic jams stretched for hours, leaving tourists stranded and making parking a logistical nightmare. Accommodations were scarce during the peak season. The well-heeled may have splurged on luxury stays without a second thought, but budget travellers faced a distinct reality—many saw their holiday spirits dampened by the skyrocketing prices.

Despite these hiccups, the charm of Diwali in the hills is undeniable. The twinkling lights, the fragrance of incense, and the joyful bursts of laughter echoed through the town. One unexpected event even added to the magic this year—a power outage that left the lake and town areas in darkness for over an hour. But rather than dampen the mood, it seemed like a blessing in disguise. In the soft glow of countless diyas, the festive spirit flickered brighter. Couples strolled hand-in-hand, and families gathered to take in the beauty of a Diwali night illuminated by tradition.

It wasn’t just the tourists who benefited from this influx. The Mount Abu Municipality experienced a surge in local businesses and a remarkable increase in entry fee revenue, generating an impressive Rs. 20 lakhs within a few days. The local economy enjoyed a much-needed boost as restaurants, shops, and street vendors catered to the throng of visitors.

This year’s Diwali, falling in mid-November, brought a novel experience. The change in weather surprised many visitors as the balmy conditions turned cooler. But that, too, became part of the tale—the memorable stories that tourists would carry home. Diwali in the hills became not just a celebration but an adventure, with everyone wrapping themselves in blankets and scarves, and sharing stories over hot tea as the festive lights danced around them.

 So, to be in Abu during Diwali is to embrace both the magic and the madness. It’s a festival of lights that illuminates new beginnings and leaves everyone with stories to cherish for years to come.

Mount Abu groaning under load beyond its capacity, situation catastrophic. [10 Nov 2018]

Mind-boggling traffic jams In Mount Abu as DEEPAWALI holidaymakers crowd this hill station.

Mind-boggling traffic climbing the hill

Mount Abu Traffic jam 10 Nov 2018

Visiting MOUNT ABU during peak Deepawali season may result in either not finding a decent hotel room or paying extremely high rates that will exceed your budget. Water shortage and parking woes are also immense problems facing those who land up here.

Today, Abu has recorded the longest traffic jam ever for this hill station. Imagine a 45-minute max 1-hour climb up or down the winding roads today took some tourists and locals over THREE to FOUR hours to make the journey.

Today, the enormous rush of Deepawali travellers brought traffic jams to this Abode of the Gods. Tourists left their cars and walked because of the chaotic traffic, leading to angry exchanges. Instead. of the usual "Welcome to Mount Abu", the roads leading up sported a new slogan - "Wapas Jao," Abu Houseful.

The internet also goes on a JAM during these peak rush days so tourists are prepared for a slow snail internet speed while here 

"HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL FROM THE ABODE OF GODS"

St.Mary's School Mount Abu.

The Schedules of events for the coming days in school

St Mary High School Annual sports

Parents, please note school next year, 2019 will begin on 11 Feb 2019. This is going to be another year in the school's history where the school will be closed for the summer because of the possibility of a shortage of water. I've attached the schedule for the sports week."16 to 23 October 2018"

Programme Sports Week.

ONCE AGAIN BEAR ATTACKED Mount Abu. 17 Sept 2018

A gruesome attack at Achalgarh from bears Mount Abu.

This latest attack today at Achalgarh by bears on a local has been brutal.

I advise caution while viewing the photographs sent to me per kind favour Charles via WhatsApp.

Attacked by bears this evening at Achalgarh

Believe they have rushed him down to Abu Road 

for a CT scan.




Once again bear attack Mount Abu [ 9 Sept 2018 [

Army firing range bear attacked a local Abuite Mt Abu.

A screenshot was taken for the video per kind favour Harry 

This morning, once again, another Local Abuite was attacked by a bear near the Army firing range. After yesterday's bear attack in my immediate neighbourhood, one would have thought folks would be more cautious. The day has been lousy, weather-wise misty and dreary with a slight drizzle off and on. The guy who was exposed must have suddenly chanced upon the bear, provoking the attack. In this area, the firing range is a haunt of bears during the monsoon season. 

They will probably post shortly the video that is making its rounds of the treatment at the civil hospital via WhatsApp on the web. 

Very fortunate for this individual, he could escape without too much damage to his face.

Just received this snap from Charles via WhatsApp.

Outside the Civil hospital in Abu. 

Bear on the rampage Mount Abu

Bear on the Rampage in Mount Abu: Another Mauling Incident at Achalgarh.

Mount Abu, known for its tranquil surroundings and natural beauty, has witnessed alarming bear attacks. Just two hours ago, another individual fell victim to a bear mauling in the Achalgarh area, marking yet another incident in what seems to be a growing concern for residents and visitors alike.

Charles, who sent me the footage via WhatsApp, informed me of the attack, giving a firsthand glimpse into the seriousness of the situation. In response to the attack, the State Hospital dispatched an ambulance to the scene to provide immediate medical help to the injured person.

This latest incident adds to the increasing number of bear encounters in Mount Abu, raising concerns about wildlife safety and human interaction in the region. As the situation develops, locals must exercise caution in areas near forested zones where bear activity has been recorded. 

Waiting for the ambulance

.  

Per kind favour Charles

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHARLES"

Keep up the good work.

Just received an update on the situation.

Some snaps are gruesome.

First aid being given 

First aid 

Dr Goyal is in attendance from State Hospital.