Paruthipattu lake near Avadi is one of the many waterbodies in the western suburbs that has fallen victim to rapid urbanisation and resultant pollution.
The Water Resources Department (WRD) has proposed to rejuvenate the lake into an eco-tourism spot at a cost of ₹28 crore, on the lines of Chetpet lake. Spread over 87 acres, the lake mainly gets fed by surplus water from Cooum river and was once a fresh water source. With the mushrooming of residential buildings in its proximity, Paruthipattu lake became an easy target to release raw sewage and is also encroached upon.
Sources in the WRD said once the government order for the project is issued, the work would be implemented in two phases. Priority would be given to demarcate boundary of the lake, desilting and strengthen the bund for a minimum distance of two km and clear vegetation in and around the water body in the first phase.
The space around the waterbody would be developed with facilities such as walkers’ path and parks. Possibility for providing a boat jetty is also being explored, an official said.
While welcoming the initiative in the area that lacks recreational space, residents noted much needs to be done to restore the lake from degradation.
Mugundan.K, a resident of Anaikattuchery near Paruthipattu, said the inlet channels that bring surplus water from Cooum river and catchments areas must be repaired.
“It is important to identify sources of pollution and plug the sewage outfalls. Like in many other areas, the stormwater drains in Avadi municipality also carry sewage. If the network is linked to the lake without preventing sewage entry, it would only add to the problems,” he said.
Residents also demanded that the project should be completed in a single phase and funds must be allocated for periodical maintenance.
