KGF (Kolar Gold Fields) is a mining town located in the Kolar district of the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The town is known for its gold mining history, which dates back to the early 19th century.
The discovery of gold in the Kolar region is attributed to a British officer named John Taylor, who was appointed as the first mining engineer of the Mysore Kingdom in 1860. In 1880, the Mysore Reefs Company was formed, and the first shaft was sunk in the Kolar Gold Fields in 1881.
Over the years, several other companies were formed, including the John Taylor and Sons Company, the Kolar Gold Fields Syndicate, and the Hutti Gold Mines Company. These companies employed thousands of workers and played a significant role in the development of the town.
During the British colonial period, KGF was one of the most prosperous mining towns in India, and it was known as the "Golden City." The town had a rich cultural life, with several cinemas, clubs, and sports facilities. The town also had its own hospital, schools, and railway station.
After India gained independence in 1947, the mining operations in KGF were nationalized, and the town came under the control of the government-owned Bharat Gold Mines Limited (BGML). However, over the years, the mining operations became increasingly unprofitable, and BGML was eventually shut down in 2001.
Today, KGF is a shadow of its former self, and the mining activity has come to a standstill. However, the town still has several historic buildings and monuments, including the Mysore Reefs and the Champion Reef mines, which are now tourist attractions.
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