Students take a close look at the neglected world of waterbodies

Environment Foundation of India screens documentary ‘Pondy’s Dry Day’

A video grab of the documentary.

Imagine swimming in Kanaganeri lake or drinking water from Bahour lake? Would it be possible now? Can this imagination become a reality some day?

These questions were raised as the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) screened a documentary ‘Pondy’s Dry Day’ on the occasion of World Water Day in Puducherry on Thursday.

Students from different schools sat engrossed as the documentary took them to the neglected world of waterbodies in the coastal town. The visuals of Velrampet lake, Chunnambar, Kanaganeri and Bahour lakes reminded the audience of the people’s neglect towards the environment and the impact of rapid modernisation.

“Little is talked about the ecosystem of this coastal paradise. Once a pristine environment with clear freshwater bodies and lagoons, Puducherry is losing it all to the social neglect. People continue to abuse water resources failing to understand that they are our lifelines," said Arun Krishnamurthy, founder, EFI an organisation based in Chennai.

Campaign and action

Formed in 2011, EFI has put down roots in eight states which includes the five southern states in addition to Odiya, Maharashtra and Gujarat. They have documented about 87 waterbodies across the eight states. They have now taken up the task of restoring Karayambuthur lake in Puducherry.

“With Tamil and French subtitles, this documentary would be screened in different schools. During the weekdays we will campaign and press in action clearing the lake during the weekends," he said. Madhan Kumar, EFI – Puducherry Coordinator, and Vignesh Mahesh of EFI were involved in filming ‘Pondy’s Dry Day.’