Masunda Lake, Lake in central Thane, India
A man-made water body in the city center spans several hectares with paved walkways and seating areas along the perimeter. A small island rises from the middle, connected by a narrow causeway and topped with a temple structure and bronze equestrian statue. Trees line the entire waterfront promenade, while vendor stalls occupy spaces between the pathways.
The water body originally covered a larger area extending eastward to Kopineshwar Temple. Urban expansion in the 1950s led to road construction that reduced the original surface area considerably, creating the current compact format. Later decades saw installation of lighting systems and paved pathways to improve access for residents.
Families and groups gather along the banks for evening walks, while street vendors offer local snacks and cold drinks. The site serves as a meeting ground for multiple generations, with older residents sitting on benches and younger people jogging or skating around the perimeter.
Access requires a 15-minute walk from Thane railway station through busy streets lined with shops. Boat rentals operate during afternoon and evening hours, with cooler months between November and February offering the most comfortable visiting conditions. Nearby fish markets sell local catch, and several restaurants line the northern side with water views.
Geological studies suggest a meteorite impact thousands of years ago may have created this water body. The region contains several other circular water formations with similar properties, supporting the impact event theory. This interpretation remains debated among scientists, with some viewing natural depression formation as a more likely explanation.
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