A once-neglected, garbage-filled four-acre plot in Chennai’s Valasaravakkam is set to undergo a remarkable transformation into a sprawling lake and eco-park, offering residents a much-needed recreational space.
The Valasaravakkam and Porur areas, home to over 5 lakh residents, have long struggled with flooding, especially during the metro rail construction works. Regular flooding, with knee-deep water on busy roads like the Porur-Vadapalani stretch, has caused traffic snarls. To address this issue, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has repurposed an abandoned private plot into a vibrant three-acre pond, which is already holding 1.5 million cubic feet of water. Located just 200 meters from Arcot Road on First Main Road, the newly developed Subramania Venkateswara Swamy pond is set to be further developed into an eco-park at an estimated cost of Rs 5 crore. The park will feature multiple tree islands for birds, an elevated bund to prevent encroachment, footpaths, parking areas, an open-air theatre, gazebos, and toilet blocks across a one-acre stretch.
The initiative stemmed from requests by local residents from 13 streets in the area, including Jai Nagar and Sairram Nagar, who had long sought a solution to the flooding issue. GCC officials identified the private land, acquired it, and swiftly excavated the pond within a month. This pond now serves as a catchment area for road runoff water and will include interception channels to filter stormwater drainage (SWD) before allowing the clean water to enter. In addition to its ecological benefits, the park will feature recreational facilities like boating, similar to the Chetpet Lake, with hopes to boost local tourism. This project aims to enhance the neighbourhood’s quality of life by providing residents with a green oasis that could also attract visitors. Local residents have requested additional measures for the pond’s protection, including boundary walls and waste disposal management to prevent garbage dumping and encroachment. Authorities are also considering installing gates, arches, and a watchman for added security.
