Ramapuram lake in Chennai to get a fresh lease of life

Ramapuram residents have a reason to rejoice. With 75 per cent of bund development work and 25 per cent of restoration process complete, the Ramapuram lake is finally seeing dawn after being left abandoned for over two decades. The work is said to be taking place at a fast pace.

The continuous push from the Ramapuram Social Welfare Federation is said to be the major reason behind this initiative.

Speaking to ‘News Today’, Paul Dhas, president of the federation, said, “The restoration work was begun two years ago, but sadly it was left incomplete due to climatic conditions. This time, we hope the work gets done soon without any hitch. We are also planning to request the corporation for laying a footpath around the lake and a park nearby with all facilities.”

Explaining about the work being carried out, Paul Dhas said, “The SWD officials who have taken charge of this work are doing their job well. Their plan is to first strengthen the bunds; the work is also picking up speed. Currently, the officials are awaiting the Field Measurement Book (FMB) sketch from the revenue department. Once that is received, the work can be completed without any delays.”

A major issue that the workers are dealing with is the septic tank pipes that have been let inside the lakes by encroaches. “The officials are working on solving this problem too,” he said.

Talking about the weather condition and how it may affect their work, Dhas said, “At present, a JCB and a poclain machine have been involved. We have also requested them to bring in more JCBs to make work easier. Because, you can’t tell when it will rain heavily; and if that is the case, they will stop the work and we will never see an end to this. We understand that the city needs rain. But we pray that it doesn’t affect our work in any way. Luckily, the city has not received heavy rains so far. Even cyclone Gaja has spared us.”

He also notified that officers make a visit daily to inspect the work being carried out. “Members of our federation also visit the spot everyday and keenly watch the progression of the work.”

“Originally, the lake was spread across 27 acres and now it has shrunk to just four acres. This is purely due to commercial establishments in and around the locality. Now, we are in a dire situation to save the remaining area at least,” he pointed out.