The Barapukuria Coal Mine Lake, located in Parbatipur upazila, has emerged as a significant attraction for visitors, transforming a site once occupied by a traditional village into a bustling tourist spot.
The 400-acre water body, known locally as “Barapukuria Lake”, was formed after the ground subsided due to underground coal extraction. The area was formerly home to a village called “Jigagari”. At present, small mosque and several coconut and date palm trees standing on the banks serve as the only remaining witnesses to the former settlement.
The lake now offers a festive atmosphere, with tourists enjoying boat and speedboat rides across its rippling waters. Local entrepreneurs have capitalised on the site’s popularity by organising small fairs featuring traditional ferris wheels, carousels, and water roller balls.
Situated in Hamidpur Union – approximately 13.2 kilometres from Parbatipur and five kilometres from Phulbari -the reservoir has been officially designated a ‘Fisheries Sanctuary’ by the government. This status aims to facilitate the breeding and conservation of endangered fish species.
Visitors from across the region have expressed their appreciation for the site’s beauty. Minhajul, a visitor from Ghoraghat, described the location as “truly wonderful,” while Nurbanu Akter from Badarganj expressed surprise at finding such a beautiful spot in a neighbouring upazila.
Hakim and Liza Akter, visiting from Dinajpur city, noted they were particularly impressed by the boat and speedboat excursions.
Despite its growing popularity, tourists have highlighted a lack of essential infrastructure. Mahidul Islam, a private sector employee from the area, noted that while crowds swell during Eid and Puja holidays, there is a pressing need for the coal mine authorities and local administration to provide adequate seating, sanitation facilities, and enhanced security measures.
