Chengalpet District is the gateway to Chennai city and is an industrial hub with several manufacturing facilities located in the length and breadth of the town. The district is also a hotspot for bird sanctuaries and ecological parks. 

Located in Chengalpet District in Tamil Nadu, Venbakkam Lake is one of the large water bodies in the region. It is adjacent to the Grand Southern Trunk Road, an arterial road, with a hillock in the Northwest and Southeast. Most importantly, it is a primary source of water for the neighboring communities, through groundwater recharge for domestic usage.

Rapidly growing urban population was a major challenge for the hydro-habitat as the lakefront became the hotspot for garbage disposal. Due to lack of structural integrity, the lake was also subject to illegal encroachments and increased chances of flooding in the nearby locality. Also, the growth of invasive weeds on the water body was again a major concern.

Environmentalist Foundation of India (E.F.I) took over the responsibility of bringing back the hydro-habitat of Venbakkam Lake. Removal of garbage from the lakefront and periphery followed by de-weeding and desilting were executed.

In order to protect the nearby community from excessive floods, creation and strengthening of bund was carried out to hold water in the lake. Along with that inlet and outlet regulation for smooth flow of water to support irrigation was also carried out.

To strengthen bund and ensure subsurface moisture retention, indigenous plant species were planted around the lake periphery. Most importantly, to thwart garbage disposal and encroachments, boundaries were clearly demarcated and fenced. As a result, the lake is now gradually emerging as an ecological hotspot and a favorite spot for migratory birds to thrive, fishes to dwell and other organisms to thrive.

We thank the Chengalpattu District Administration of all support extended.

Volunteer for India & Her Environment with E.F.I.