Chennai's Lakes Revitalisation: CMDA Appoints Consultants To Prepare Project Reports For 10 Lakes

Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) has set the stage for the rejuvenation of ten prominent lakes in the Chennai Metropolitan region.

The lakes earmarked for revival include some of Chennai's most iconic water bodies. The sprawling 450-acre Perumbakkam Lake, the 400-acre Retteri Lake, and the rain-fed Madambakkam Lake covering 80 acres are among the key focuses of the project.

Other water bodies include Mudichur, Madambakkam, Sembakkam, Ayanambakkam, Velachery, Adambakkam, Puzhal, and Kolathur.

They are slated to undergo extensive transformations to restore their ecological balance and enhance their recreational and aesthetic appeal.

Following a national-level design competition, the CMDA has engaged ten of the best landscape consultants to meticulously prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for each lake.

This ambitious project, initiated after the State government's allocation of Rs 100 crore in 2022, aims to address various issues such as water logging, pollution caused by untreated sewage, and the overall health of these vital water bodies, as per The Hindu report.

The rejuvenation project not only promises environmental benefits but also seeks to create vibrant community spaces for residents and visitors alike.

By integrating eco-friendly designs, recreational facilities, and cultural spaces, these revitalised lakes are expected to become hubs of biodiversity, leisure, and cultural exchange.

One of the significant challenges faced by the project lies in the uniqueness of each lake. Customised planning is essential, taking into account factors such as current lake health, land availability, and suitability to the surrounding neighbourhood.

As the CMDA spearheads this transformative endeavour, Chennai's residents eagerly await the revival of these lakes, which are not only essential for the city's ecological health but also integral to its social and cultural fabric.

This initiative stands as a testament to the government's commitment to sustainable urban development and environmental preservation, heralding a greener, cleaner future for the Chennai Metropolitan region.