45. Umiam

On the way to Shillong from Guwahati is a scenic water body.

What is it - I ask as usual.

"It is Umiam Lake." comes the answer.

Umiam Lake View 1 Shillong, August 2011

It is so peaceful - to watch it is a god's gift indeed.

Umiam Lake View 2, Shillong, August 2011

I keep on watching it every day. Why is it called Umiam Lake? 

Because, it is the product of a dam built on River Umiam. The dam construction started in 1965 to create first Hydel Power plant in the North East. 

Later I am told that the term Umiam in Khasi language means "Crying River". 

Someone explains that it is not actually 'Crying River' but 'Flood of Tears". 

Why the beautiful waters has such a name?

Because the river used to flood regularly and take many lives each year. 

So, the name is indeed very relevant. 

Umilam Lake View 3, Shillong, August 2011

Is the river still crying because an obstruction is created in her way?

Or because the way human beings are using her? 

Or because she has become an object of consumerism?