Changemakers: Madhavaram pond restored by joint effort

Speaking about the effort, Ram Narayanan, coordinator at the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) recalled the condition of the pond when he first saw it. “The pond had become a garbage dump yard and there was no way one could identify the waterbody,” said the volunteer, adding that they decided to scientifically restore it, roping in the local community, NGOs and the city Corporation. 

The garbage from the pond was removed by the Corporation, following which, the NGO started the restoration process. 

“The garbage was removed using excavators and the Corporation disposed it. Then, the silt from the pond was used to create the bunds around it, encircling the waterbody. In addition, an inlet and outlet channel for the pond was built, along with a five feet deep recharge pit,” said Ram. The local community has volunteered to ensure that the waterbody is maintained. 

“There are a few tea shops in the vicinity. The children of the owners as well as other residents and NGOs in the vicinity are ensuring that the saplings planted on the bund are maintained. The local community has taken responsibility of the pond,” said Ram. The Corporation has undertaken the revival of 32 waterbodies in and around North Chennai. 

A senior official said, “The Corporation has been actively working towards restoration of waterbodies across the city. Tamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Financial Services Ltd. (TNUIFSL) will soon appoint consultants for 24 waterbodies. In addition, the tender for restoration of Villivakkam lake will soon be out.” 

The civic body is trying to channel CSR funding towards waterbody restoration to protect these structures from turning into built-up area.