Kalyan's Kala Talao set for makeover with new facilities for all age groups

KALYAN: Kalyan's historic Prabodhankar Thackeray Talao, popularly known as Kala Talao or Bhagwa Talao, is set to receive a major facelift with new attractions and modern facilities for people of all age groups.The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation will add or upgrade several amenities, including boating, a floating bridge, fishing, a laser show, a cafeteria, and a fountain.The renovation work is in its final phase, and the Talao premises are expected to reopen within the next two months. Once operational, citizens will enjoy a clean and vibrant environment with better recreational infrastructure. The lake area, which will temporarily remain closed for some time, will soon come alive with lights, leisure activities, and greenery.According to KDMC officials, after completing the beautification and safety measures, the Talao premises will be open to the public from 6am to 11pm. The civic body has also introduced a new high-tech boating system to enhance the visitor experience. In addition, new trees and landscaping are being added to improve the natural ambience. KDMC garden department head Sanjay Jadhav said the rejuvenation work at Prabodhankar Thackeray Talao was undertaken on the instructions of KDMC chief Abhinav Goel, not just for beautification but to provide better amenities to citizens of all age groups without compromising the open space.

Prabodhankar Thackeray Talao is a historic lake built by Adil Shah of Bijapur and located 1.5km north of Kalyan station. It covers around 24 acres. The Talao is utilised by the public for various recreational activities, including morning and evening walks, yoga, and cultural events, including rituals. The name, Kala Talao, became popular as there was a mosque called Kali Masjid nearby.