This hill-graded waterbody, located in the heart of Hosur city, serves as an important water resource. Water flows into it from Alasanatham Lake upstream, passes through Vasanth Nagar Lake, and eventually reaches Basthi Lake, cascading down from the hills. This Rock-Forged Lake is uniquely scenic, with natural rock formations on its southwestern side.

However, despite its ecological and aesthetic significance, the lake has been severely neglected and degraded. It is has been contaminated with untreated sewage from nearby residences, which has led to the rampant growth of invasive species such as water hyacinth and Prosopis juliflora. In addition, weak embankments and illegal encroachments have further worsened the lake’s condition over time.

E.F.I in collaboration with the Hosur City Municipal Corporation
undertook a comprehensive restoration effort to restore Basthi lake back to its natural state.

Water Hyacinth Menace

Basthi Lake has become a dumping ground for wastewater and domestic runoff, which lead to the growth of water hyacinth. This invasive plant forms a thick green blanket over the lake’s surface, blocking sunlight and significantly reducing dissolved oxygen levels in the water. As a result, the lake’s aquatic ecosystem is under severe stress, and the surrounding community is also affected. The stagnant, hyacinth-covered water creates a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects, increasing the risk of diseases such as malaria.

The removal of invasive weeds was carried out across the entire lake surface, clearing over 360 tons of water hyacinth spread across 30 acres.

This large-scale effort was essential to restore the lake’s natural ecosystem, improve water flow, and increase oxygen levels in the water. The cleared areas now allow sunlight to penetrate the surface, helping revive aquatic life and improve water quality.

Additionally, the southeastern corner of the lake had been encroached upon and was being used for personal gain. This land parcel was reclaimed and restored to the lake by removing the encroachments. The area was then desilted, and the silt removed was used to strengthen the offshore embankment. To prevent future encroachments and enhance the lake’s structural integrity, nesting islands and reinforced embankments were constructed in this zone.

The restoration of this once-neglected waterbody stands as a powerful reminder of what collective action and ecological responsibility can achieve. From clearing invasive weeds and reclaiming encroached land to strengthening embankments and creating nesting islands, every step taken has contributed to reviving the lake’s health and ecology. As the waters begin to breathe again and biodiversity slowly returns, this effort serves not only as an environmental success story but also as a call to protect and preserve our urban lakes for future generations.

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