Chennai Lake Revived: Solar Power & Eco-Tourism Boost

Retteri lake, a vital drinking water buffer for Chennai, has achieved full storage capacity after undergoing recent restoration. The project, costing ₹43.19 crore, involved deepening the tank bed and strengthening bunds, significantly boosting its storage from 32 million cubic feet (mcft) to 50 mcft.

To ensure long-term sustainability and improve water quality, eight solar-powered aerators are being installed in collaboration with the Environmentalist Foundation of India. These aerators aim to curb water hyacinth growth, particularly in areas with higher nutrient deposits. Discussions are also underway to expand plantations and establish a container museum.

While residents welcome the restoration, they highlight ongoing issues of sewage discharge and encroachments. The Water Resources Department is coordinating with Chennai Metrowater to address sewage outfalls, and efforts to remove encroachments are pending court resolutions.