In the southern Indian state of Karnataka, about two hours away from the city of Bangalore is a region called Kolar Gold Fields.
A hub of activity for over a century, the mines here shut in 2001 when gold prices fell to unprofitable levels.
Bharat Gold Mines Limited used to own the lease to mine an area that was about 16km long by 3km wide.
It was shut down nearly a decade ago as it became too expensive to continue operations.
With the growth of the gold mines requiring more labour, people from the Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Salem and North and South Arcot districts of Tamil Nadu and the Chittoor and Ananthapur districts of Andhra Pradesh settled nearby; the settlements began to form the outskirts of K.G.F. The well-to-do families of British and Indian engineers, geologists, and mine supervisors lived in the centre of town. Two townships, Robertsonpet and Andersonpet, are named after two British mine officials.
The establishment of BEML Limited expanded the city, providing employment and attracting new residents.
Picture Credit : Google