Thanks to the efforts of the state Minister K Pandiarajan, Paruthipattu lake near Avadi (in the suburbs of Chennai) which was once a neglected water-body has been rejuvenated, restored and renovated. Pandiarajan was elected to Tamil Nadu assembly from the Avadi constituency.

The 22-hectare lake that can hold 21.5 million cubic feet of water, is one of the largest water bodies in the neighbourhood. During monsoon, the lake receives water from Vilinjiyambakkam lake, also in Avadi, and subsequently feeds several other small waterbodies.

Renovated at a cost of Rs 28 crores and developed on similar lines to that of eco-park in Chetpet area of Chennai, the lake now boasts of a 3-km long walking track around it, mudflats to attract birds and boat deck facilities.

Several issues degrading the water body included encroachments and sewage pollution have been addressed as a part of the lake rejuvenation project.

Most of the encroachments have been removed and lake has been desilted and deepened for better storage. The lake will now serve as a groundwater recharge source for surrounding areas.

The restoration work commenced in 2016 and was carried out by State government’s Public Works Department (PWD). During the first phase around Rs 7.16 crore was spent in which the PWD worked to strengthen the bunds, repair shutters and canals. It also set up provisions for creating a bird sanctuary.

During the second phase, Rs 21 crore was spent towards erecting a compound wall, laying of walkers’ path, repairing the inflow canal, setting up a park, gym and open air auditorium. A new playground also has come up at the spot.

Nearly 35 varieties of plants are being planted around the lake. Besides the central plaza where people can relax, a refreshment block has also been built. A 36 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) near the lake is also under construction.