PWD to take up renovation work in four major lakes

Following the devastation caused by the north-east monsoon and the ensuing floods in Chennai, the Public Works Department’s (Water Resources Division) has been busy formulating plans and proposing master projects to protect lakes from further damage. In the latest move, the PWD has come forward to take up renovation work in four major lakes from where drinking water is being supplied to the Metro region. PWD sources said the rain filled up all lakes in a short span of time. The rains had partially damaged the lakes’ intake structure, which is responsible for removal of impurities (including sewage).

As these lakes were rapidly filled, renovation became inevitable at these points. M Bhakthavatchalam, Superintendent Engineer, Palar Basin Circle, PWD (Chennai Region) told DT Next “The city gets drinking water from four lakes, Chembarambakkam, Redhills, Cholavaram and Poondi. We need to protect these lakes in all aspects.

 We will inspect all the areas around these lakes to carry out renovation at the intake structure.” The officer added that since the primary function of the intake structures was to help draw water safely, renovation works are paramount. Bhakthavatchalam mentioned that the PWD is monitoring all 13 lakes in the region. “A separate wing has been constituted to monitor lakes around the clock. The wing would inspect all the intake structures. 

Renovation will be carried out on priority if any portions are damaged.” In fact, the PWD already sent a proposal for master projects, in which it planned to undertake works like desilting, construction of ramparts and fencing at some points of the lakes. But as the supply of drinking water to the city cannot be compromised, the officials focused on these lakes to take up necessary works. Activists have stressed that PWD must protect the sources of drinking water.

MP Durairaj, a member of TN Retired PWD Engineers Association said it is crucial for PWD (WRD) and Metro water officials to ensure water is not contaminated. “The PWD should inspect lakes, which provide drinking water and execute maintenance works at this juncture as all lakes had been polluted before being filled to their capacity.”  

Lakes                                  Tank level (ft) 

Poondi                                     140.00

Cholavaram                              64.50

Redhills                                     50.20

Chembarambakkam                  85.40