Even as three major water bodies in the western part of the city are getting a makeover, Care Earth Trust, is planning to reach out to citizens in restoring wetlands through a series of workshops starting from Tuesday.
The city-based biodiversity research organisation plans to create citizen groups across the city by spreading awareness about the need to protect wetlands across the city.
Meanwhile, work on rejuvenating three lakes in Ambattur, Korattur and Madhavaram is progressing rapidly, officials say. The Water Resources Department has expedited the projects by removing encroachments, plugging sewer outfalls into Ambattur Lake. However, residents of Ayapakkam say that since the area lacks proper drainage system, sewage is now let into vacant lands, much to their woe.
The department, which identified these water bodies as ecotourism spots, is also creating walkers’ path and parks apart from strengthening of bund. An official of the WRD said over 60 per cent of the work has been completed in Ambattur and Korattur lakes.
“We are waiting for release of funds to create mud flats in the middle of the lakes for the second phase of the project. Nearly Rs. 65 crore is expected to be sanctioned under Renewable Energy Development Fund under the Environment and Forests Department,” the official added.
While these three water bodies are getting restored, Care Earth Trust is keen on creating awareness on nearly 474 wetlands located in and around the city. This includes ponds, lakes and marshlands. Its managing trustee Jayshree Vencatesan said restoration of each wetland has to be customised.
“We will train participants about wetlands and how to monitor them through simple metrics. We will evolve, with citizens, a plan to restore individual wetlands through such meetings. Participants will also get a kit to test water quality. This way, more local citizen groups can be formed and be custodians for protection of wetlands. People can reach us through citizenwetland@gmail.com,” she said.
