Spanning over 200 acres, Avalpoondurai Lake, located south of Erode’s industrial hub, stands as a vital water body for the region. The lake is nourished by the Lower Bhavani Canal, which flows west to east just north of its boundary. For generations, Avalpoondurai has been the backbone of local farming communities, supporting extensive agricultural activities.

Beyond its agricultural importance, the lake is also a crucial wetland ecosystem, home to both resident and migratory birds. Its unique wetland characteristics support diverse habitats that shift with the seasons. During the monsoons, the lake fills to capacity, while in drier months, receding water levels gradually reveal mudflats, grasslands, and shallow ponds. These dynamic changes create distinct ecological zones littoral, limnetic, and benthic throughout the year, fostering rich biodiversity.

This seasonal rhythm attracts a variety of birdlife, including migratory waders such as the Terek Sandpiper, Kentish Plover, and Tibetan Sand Plover, as well as passerine and water birds like the Siberian Stonechat, Eurasian Spoonbill, Painted stork, Spot-Billed Pelican, and many more. During the migratory season, the lake also witnesses spectacular gatherings of butterflies, with large numbers of Common Crow and Blue Tiger butterflies adding to the richness of its ecosystem.

However, in recent times, the lake has faced serious challenges. Contamination, unchecked growth of invasive plant species, encroachments, and prolonged neglect have taken a toll on its ecosystem. The offshore embankment, left unmaintained, has weakened with cracks and erosion, placing hundreds of acres of downstream farmland at risk.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Collector of Erode, invited the Environmentalist Foundation of India (E.F.I.) to undertake a large-scale restoration of Avalpoondurai Lake. This effort represents a collaborative initiative between the District Administration and E.F.I.

On March 2, 2024, the restoration was officially inaugurated, with the District Collector ceremoniously flagging off the project.

The restoration of Avalpoondurai Lake began with removal of Prosopis juliflora and other invasive weeds that had spread across vast stretches of the lake. In total, more than 63 acres of invasive growth were cleared and safely torched, opening up space for native species to reclaim their place.

With the weeds removed, 780 meters of inlet canal, was regulated to ensure smooth water flow into the lake. This crucial step secured the lake’s natural hydrology, preparing it to receive and store water during the monsoon.

Desilting was carried out across 37,045 sq. meters, deepening the lake bed by 1.5 to 2 meters. Alongside this, 11 recharge pits – 2 round and 9 box-shaped were dug to improve groundwater percolation and strengthen the lake’s role as a natural aquifer.

13+ nesting islands were established within the lake, planted with
over 100 native saplings to provide safe roosting and breeding spaces for birds.

The lake’s structural resilience was reinforced by strengthening 950 meters of offshore bunds and constructing 850 meters of foreshore embankments. To prevent further damage and safeguard the restored ecosystem, 1,056 meters of protective fencing were installed. Additionally, more than 10+ acres of encroachments were successfully removed,
reclaiming space for the lake’s natural spread.

Before and After of The Avalpoondurai Lake

A unique feature of the restoration is the Container Lake Museum, built on-site as a “by the lake classroom.” This space offers students and citizens an opportunity to learn about the lake’s history, ecology, and the importance of conservation – making Avalpoondurai not just a restored water body, but also a living classroom.

Beyond machines and plans, Avalpoondurai’s revival is powered by people. Weekend volunteering activities – including seed ball dispersal, palm seed plantations, and cleanup drives – have ensured that the lake remains well-maintained. Local citizens, schools, and volunteers join hands regularly to nurture the lake, creating a model of community-driven conservation.

From battling invasives, garbage, encroachments to creating bird-friendly habitats, Avalpoondurai Lake is now on the path to becoming a sustainable, resilient ecosystem once again. What began as an effort to protect farmland and biodiversity has grown into a movement where people and nature thrive together.

#TogetherTowardsTomorrow in conserving lakes of Erode.

E.F.I’s Sungai water story from Erode

E.F.I’s Balathozhuvar water story from Erode

Also watch our Kaveri documentary and ofcourse the Kalingarayan story.