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Chennai, Oct 16 (IANS) The century-old Madurantakam lake in Chengalpattu district, one of the largest and most historic water bodies in Tamil Nadu, is nearing the end of its massive restoration effort, with officials confirming that about 95 per cent of the work has been completed.
The Rs 163 crore project is expected to be fully operational by February 2026. Built by King Uthma Chozan in the 10th century, Madurantakam Lake is spread over about 4,752 acres and once had a full storage capacity of 23.4 feet.
It has long been an important irrigation source for about 2,853 acres of agricultural land in 36 villages including Valarpirai, Mullai, Kadaperi, Vilagam and Mukkancheri. However, silt accumulation over decades had significantly reduced the water-holding capacity of the lake, causing even 10 feet of water to appear full.
Responding to repeated demands from local farmers and environmentalists, the state government sanctioned Rs 120 crore for the restoration of the lake in 2021, with work starting next year. Later, an additional Rs 43 crore was allocated for the construction of a 12-shutter surplus sluice gate to manage the flow and prevent floods.
According to Water Resources Department (WRD) engineers, the advanced system has 12 automatic shutters spanning 144 metres, operated by electric motors.
These gates will control both water storage and discharge, ensuring effective flood control and increased irrigation potential.
Aided by the consistent flow of the northeast monsoon, a trial campaign of releasing water through the new gates is currently underway.
“The initial trials of the automatic gates have been successful, and the lake is already receiving healthy inflows,” said a senior WRD official. “Once completed, this project will restore the full capacity of the lake, help recharge groundwater and significantly benefit paddy cultivation in the region.”
Before restoration, the capacity of the reservoir was 694 million cubic feet (mcft). Upon completion, the modernized Madurantakam lake will be able to store 1,000 mcft of water annually – an increase of about 45 percent in capacity.
Officials said that by February 2026, the lake will be fully functional for agriculture and public use, marking the revival of the water body that has served as a lifeline for generations of farmers in Chengalpattu.
–IANS
AL/DPB