Bunds of Nallur lake breach, inundate farms

The lake, which comes under the Public Works Department (PWD), had been desilted and the bunds strengthened, only a few months ago, at a cost of Rs 15 lakh. In the recent rains, 80 per cent of the waterbody was filled. However, on Sunday, the bunds gave way and water inundated close to 500 acres of farming land, before draining into the Madhuranthagam lake.

While most of the water has drained, only 25 per cent of the flow has inundated the farmlands. Farmers

are worried over the impact on their crops. A case has been filed in Cheyur police station, as the locals suspect foul play by those living on the encroachments near the lake, to prevent the rising water from entering their homes.

An official from PWD said, “We will repair the bund within two days.” Since the bund was strengthened recently, there will be a Revenue Department enquiry into the occurrence.

Revenue Minister RB Udhaya Kumar, during his inspection in Kancheepuram, said that on learning about the lake breach, he ordered that work be undertaken to rectify the problem. Efforts should be taken to ensure that this incident does not recur, added the minister.