Chennai's Idumbankulam Lake Set for Major Restoration with ₹6 Crore Investment
Idumbankulam, a vital waterbody located in Ward 32 of the Perungalathur zone in Chennai, is poised to receive a significant revival after years of neglect. The Tambaram Corporation has officially sanctioned a substantial budget of ₹6 crore for the comprehensive restoration and development of this crucial lake, marking a pivotal step towards environmental conservation in the region.
Historical Significance and Current Challenges
Historically known as the Old Perungalathur lake, this water source once spanned an impressive 70 acres, serving as a major reservoir for the Perungalathur area. Over time, however, the lake has faced severe degradation, now reduced to approximately 55 acres due to rampant encroachments and pollution. More than 600 unauthorized structures, including residential buildings and commercial establishments, have obstructed natural inflow channels, contributing significantly to its shrinking size.
The lake's current state is alarming, with a thick blanket of water hyacinth covering its surface, exacerbated by the continuous inflow of untreated sewage. Local residents have long complained about a persistent heavy stench, highlighting the failure of previous restoration efforts to address the root causes of pollution.
Comprehensive Restoration Plan Unveiled
The newly allocated funds will focus on a multi-faceted approach to rejuvenate Idumbankulam lake. Key objectives include enhancing groundwater recharge capabilities and strengthening the piped water supply to nearby residents, ensuring sustainable water management for the community.
Planned restoration work encompasses several critical measures:
- Strengthening the lake bund to improve structural integrity.
- Implementing stone pitching along the banks to prevent erosion and soil loss.
- Constructing a dedicated walk path to promote public access and recreational use.
- Developing a children's play area and additional recreational spaces to foster community engagement.
Expert Insights and Official Statements
Darwin Annadurai, a prominent environmental activist and founder of the Eco Society of India, emphasized the importance of addressing sewage issues before proceeding with restoration. "Before any restoration work begins, it is crucial to identify and cut off all sewage inlets. Alternatively, the corporation could consider building a small sewage treatment plant to filter the inflow," he stated. Annadurai also stressed the necessity of removing water hyacinth from its roots to ensure the long-term success of the project.
Commissioner S Balachander of the Tambaram Corporation provided further context, noting that this initiative represents the initial phase of a broader strategy. "This is only the beginning of a larger plan aimed at making the corporation encroachment-free and restoring our natural water bodies," he explained to TOI.
Broader Implications and Future Prospects
The restoration of Idumbankulam lake is not merely an environmental endeavor but a vital step towards improving public health and quality of life in Chennai. By tackling encroachments and pollution, the project aims to revive a once-thriving water source, potentially setting a precedent for similar efforts across the city. As the Tambaram Corporation moves forward with this ambitious plan, residents and environmentalists alike await tangible results that could herald a new era of sustainable water management in urban India.
