After establishing Bangalore, Kempe Gowda built
several tanks and ponds in and around the city to provide
continuous water supply to his subjects. Dharmambudhi Tank
(present Bangalore Bus Stand), Sampangi Tank (present
Kanteerava Stadium), Kempambudhi Tank, Ulsoor Tank,
Karanji Tank and Chennamma Tank all are ascribed
to his period. These tanks continued to quench thirst of the
people till the beginning of this century. But rapid urbanisation
and mismanagement have led to the disapperance of these tanks
one by one. Of these tanks the only surviving one is the Ulsoor
Tank.
Kempambudhi Tank, one of the very few big tanks is on
the verge of extinction. This tank is an ideal example of the
fact that during those days tanks were not just water resources
but were the centres for religious, cultural and sports activities
too.
In 1921, a swimming association called Dolphin Swimming Club
was formed under the auspices of Scout Head Quarters. Swimming
classes were conducted in this tank. By 1930 the club had grown
quite popular and trained about 2000 men and 180 women. Many
eminent personalities of that period were members of the club.
In 1934, a nine year old Bhyramma set a world record by swimming
for 18 hours at a stretch in this tank. The then Divan Sir
Mirza Ismail also witnessed the event.
Another very important and remarkable aspect of this tank is
the still existing two-water outlets. Made of stone to control
the flow of water they are built artistically with beautiful
relief figures. Built on two different ground levels, they have
four pillars and a roof. All the four pillars, roof and the
space inside are beautifully sculpted. Underground tunnels built
of bricks and mortar interconnects them. An iron rod attached
to a valve was used to control the flow of excess water going
out of this tank
These outlets and tunnels are classic examples of the irrigational
techniques adopted during Kempe Gowda. s period. They are not
only important monuments, but have historical significance particularly
for those in the field of irrigation. Thus they need to be protected.
2:53:06 AM 
After establishing Bangalore, Kempe Gowda built
several tanks and ponds in and around the city to provide
continuous water supply to his subjects. Dharmambudhi Tank
(present Bangalore Bus Stand), Sampangi Tank (present
Kanteerava Stadium), Kempambudhi Tank, Ulsoor Tank,
Karanji Tank and Chennamma Tank all are ascribed
to his period. These tanks continued to quench thirst of the
people till the beginning of this century. But rapid urbanisation
and mismanagement have led to the disapperance of these tanks
one by one. Of these tanks the only surviving one is the Ulsoor
Tank. 
