Metrowater to hand over Villivakkam lake to Corpn

CHENNAI: Even as the Greater Chennai Corporation has eco-restored the Villivakkam Lake to convert it into a recreational spot, the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (Metrowater) has been directed to hand over remaining portion of the lake to the civic body for further restoration.

According to a civic body official, the handing over is based on a direction by National Green Tribunal (NGT). "The Greater Chennai Corporation has been entrusted with 8 acres of land at Villivakkam STP (sewage treatment plant) for improving the area of lake for the purpose of protecting the environment, " a Chennai Corporation document said.

The NGT has directed the civic body to take steps to deepen the area in such a way to ensure free flow of water in the land to be handed over by the Metrowater. This is to enhance the water storing capacity by providing inlets and outlets.

Meanwhile, the civic body has decided to select an architectural consultant to prepare report, concept design, draft design, final design and detailed project report.

It may be recalled that the entire Villivakkam lake was maintained by the Metrowater. Of around 39 acres of the total extent of the lake, Metrowater handed over 27.5 acres to the civic body to take up eco-restoration under the Smart City Mission. As the 8 acres will be handed over to the civic body, sewage treatment plant will continue to function on the remaining portion of the lake.

Meanwhile, the civic body has constructed a suspension bridge and other facilities and is ready for inauguration.