Umiam Lake, the man-made reservoir that powers Shillong
Background
Umiam Lake, also called Barapani, lies about 15 km north of Shillong in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It is a man-made reservoir created for hydroelectric power generation. In the Khasi language, the name 'Umiam' means 'water of tears', drawn from a local legend of two sisters. Besides power generation, the lake today supports boating, trekking, camping, fishing, kayaking and water-skiing, and is one of Shillong's well-known natural attractions alongside Shillong Peak and Elephant Falls.
Alternative name:
Barapani
Distance from Shillong:
About 15 km
District:
East Khasi Hills
Purpose:
Hydroelectric power generation
Why it matters for exams: Umiam Lake is a frequently asked Meghalaya geography question, testing knowledge of the state's man-made water bodies and their purpose.
Kerala PSCUPSC