Vellanur Periyaeri is a important waterbody that plays a crucial role in sustaining agriculture in Thiruvallur. Located near the Krishna Water Canal, which feeds into Puzhal Eri, this lake serves as a primary irrigation source for paddy and other crops in the region. It also significantly contributes to groundwater recharge, replenishing local wells and borewells.
Beyond its agricultural importance, Vellanur Periyaeri is a thriving habitat for diverse bird species and serves as a key feeding ground for migratory birds.
Located in the ever-growing suburban region of Chennai city, Vellanur Periyaeri faces numerous threats caused by urbanization. Excessive garbage dumping, including plastics, slaughterhouse waste, and household waste, contaminates the periphery. Excess silt deposition over the years and an undulated surface area reduce the lake’s water-holding capacity, Growth of invasive weeds such as Prosopis Juliflora and Ipomea Carnea deplete groundwater and obstruct the growth of native vegetation. Additionally, high-tension electrical lines running through the lake make it difficult to desilt and maintain water levels. With weak embankments, the lake has poor structural integrity, and the lack of a legal boundary on the foreshore region increases the threat of encroachment.
Two phases of restoration activities were held in 2022 and 2023, respectively. During the first phase, a series of activities, such as garbage removal, de-weeding, desilting on the western periphery, and embankment strengthening using the excavated silt on the southern periphery, were conducted. During the second phase, break bunds with inner and outer trenches were constructed on the northern part of the lake. This work established the boundary of the lake and also helped the water flow without any disturbances.
Regulation of the northwest inlet canal was carried out to ensure that the lake has an active surface flow from the northwest to the central water-holding area. The creation of nesting islands, percolation trenches, and recharge wells was also carried out to ensure that the lake replenishes aquifers and serves its purpose as a biodiversity hotspot. Protective fencing were also established on the foreshore region to reduce antisocial activities and to stop garbage dumping.
The restoration of Vellanur Periyaeri has significantly increased its storage capacity. The strengthened embankments improve structural integrity and resilience during floods. The nesting islands now host multiple bird species, including the lesser whistling duck, spot-billed duck, black-winged stilt, lapwings, ibis, egrets, pelicans, and more.
Today, Vellanur Periyaeri, with its lilies, birds, water, break bund, recharge pits, and green pastures, is a fenced water wonder amidst the ever expanding city of Chennai.
Volunteer for India and her Environment with E.F.I