Under the Chief Minister Water Security Mission, Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) has started cleaning the Adambakkam and Sithalapakkam waterbodies. Further, the cleanups at Thiruneermalai lake, Thalambur lake in Ottiyambakkam and Thiruverkadu lake will start in another two weeks. EFI will work alongside the government departments concerned in reviving these lakes. “The clean-ups are community-and volunteer-based activities. Consisting of professionals and school and college students, the volunteers represent quite a cross-section,” said Arun Krishnamurthy, founder, EFI.
“The cleanup process includes removing trash and invasive botanical species which include thorny bushes and water hyacinths, after availing proper permission from the State government,” he pointed out.
The next process involves adopting a scientific methods including a futuristic approach towards the protection of waterbodies. This exercise will be carried out for the next 16 to 18 months, after receiving permission from the Public Works Department and other departments concerned.
“A scientific restoration of waterbodies is essential to ensure future protection against flooding and stabilising the groundwater table in the neighbourhood. Steps will also be taken to clear the encroachments that occupy the catchment area, plugging sewage inflow valves.”
“Awareness among residents and their participation in conservation of waterbodies is also essential. Also, people should stop dumping trash and discharging sewage into the waterbodies. The State government should encourage civil society participation and take steps to protect the waterbodies,” E. Selvamani, an EFI volunteer, said. Under the first phase of the mission, the NGO has cleaned up Mambakkam, Keezhkattalai, Mudichur and Perumbakkam waterbodies. For details, contact Ram, coordinator of EFI, at 9677097824, or write to info@indiaenvironment.org.
