வண்டலூர்-கேளம்பாக்கம் நெடுஞ்சாலையில் அமைந்துள்ள கொளப்பாக்கம் ஏரி சுமார் 44 ஏக்கர் பரப்பளவைக் கொண்டுள்ளது. கொளப்பாக்கம் ஏரி மறுசீரமைப்பு பற்றிய வலைப்பதிவைப் படித்து செங்கல்பட்டின் சுற்றுச்சூழலுக்காக எங்களுடன் தன்னார்வத் தொண்டு செய்யுங்கள்.

Kolapakkam Lake, nestled along the Vandalur-Kelambakkam Highway, spans approximately 44.4 acres and serves as a vital ecosystem in the region. Before E.F.I’s intervention, the lake faced significant challenges, including invasive weeds, excessive siltation and structural degradation that turned portions of the lake into waterlogged patches.

E.F.I thanks the Chengalpattu District Administration for their administrative support and CITI for funding this restoration.

Key Restoration Activities

E.F.I’s restoration efforts involved several crucial steps:

1. Desilting: To combat the sediment accumulation that diminished the lake’s water-holding capacity, we utilized excavators to remove 2 to 3 feet of sediment from the lake bed. This process not only increase the storage but also enhanced groundwater replenishment.

2. Island Construction: Eight nesting islands were created using the excavated soil, providing safe habitats for various species and enhancing the ecological balance of the lake.

3. Trenches: Shallow channels were dug around the lake to manage water flow, prevent soil erosion and promote groundwater recharge, aiding in replenishing its water levels.

4. Bund Strengthening and Widening: The existing bunds were reinforced and expanded with desilted soil, enhancing their structural integrity and capacity to retain water, while also preventing flooding.

After Restoration

Community Engagement

Community involvement has been a crucial part of our restoration efforts to raise awareness and inculcate a sense of responsibility towards the water body among the local community. Lake cleanup, seed dispersal, bird watching activities were conducted at Kolapakkam Lake.

The restoration of Kolapakkam Lake reminds us of the power of collaborative efforts in environmental sustainability. By addressing ecological challenges and engaging the community, we are paving the way for a healthier lake ecosystem that benefits both wildlife and local communities for years to come. Together, we can ensure that Kolapakkam Lake thrives as a vibrant natural resource!

Volunteer for India and her Environment with E.F.I