Chennai: The Rajakilpakkam lake, which was originally spread over about 105 acres, has reduced to just 30 acres due to encroachments. In a bid to restore it, about 23 resident welfare associations have joined hands.
Residents turned out in large number to take part in the restoration and cleaning activity which kick-started 13 July. Following this the residents have now took up the initiative of restoring the Vengaivasal lake. The work for this began 20 July.
The coordinators of the initiative said they are overwhelmed by the response and are motivated to carry out the work.
Speaking to News Today about the initiative, Federation of Rajakilpakkam Residents’ Welfare Association secretary V Seetharaman said they were inspired by the work carried out by the locals in Chitlapakkam.
“We, too, have several water resources in and around our locality and most of them cry for attention. So, we thought it was high time we stepped in. We have sought permission from Kanchipuram Collector P Ponnaiah, who has also given the go-ahead,” he said.
Seetharaman further said several of them from the locality have come forward to sponsor the clean-up drive.
“Our initial aim will be to clean the lake, following which we will move to the bunds,” he said.
Seetharaman also requested volunteers to actively take part in the initiative. For details, contact 98845 06335.