Located in northwestern Tamil Nadu, Tiruvallur is a rapidly growing and developing district known for its abundant water bodies and cyclonic rainfall. The district is dotted with several hundred lakes, ponds, and reservoirs across its landscape. From the massive Poondi Reservoir, an important reservoir supplying drinking water to Chennai to the small ponds of Pandeswaram that serve as vital water sources for surrounding agricultural communities, these water bodies play a crucial role in sustaining life and livelihoods. Farmers, industries, and local communities all depend on this precious resource.
Kaivandur Lake, located in Kaivandur village west of Tiruvallur, is a significant water body that has traditionally supported agricultural irrigation in the region. However, local farmers often speak about how the lake gradually became unreliable for farming due to its irregular and undulated lakebed, along with poorly functioning inflow and outflow canals. The transition of surrounding farmlands into residential layouts is clearly visible in satellite imagery, reflecting the declining dependency on this once-thriving water source.
A comprehensive restoration effort was undertaken at the lake to revive its hydrological system. Regulating the lake depth, restoring proper inflow and outflow channels, and increasing the storage capacity became the primary focus of the restoration. Additional ecological interventions such as nesting and island habitats, strengthened dual embankments, recharge pits, and improved water flow management were also incorporated to enhance the lake’s long-term ecological and agricultural value. In an effort to restore these valuable water bodies, E.F.I., in collaboration with the Tiruvallur District Administration and Caterpillar India, initiated a comprehensive restoration project under #BlueGreenTiruvallur. The goal was to revitalize these lakes into thriving natural habitats and dependable water resources for both the local community and wildlife.
Check out the restoration efforts being carried out at Kaivandur Lake
Volunteer for Tiruvallur & Her Environment with E.F.I.
