Chennai's Rajakilpakkam Lake Faces Severe Degradation as Size Plummets
Once a flourishing freshwater ecosystem spanning more than 100 acres that served the Sembakkam municipality, Rajakilpakkam lake in Chennai has now dwindled to less than 30 acres in size. The lake is currently suffocating under a combination of water hyacinths, untreated sewage inflows, and rampant encroachments, with no financial resources allocated for its much-needed rejuvenation.
Ecological Disaster Unfolds with Foul Conditions
Local residents have highlighted the continuous discharge of untreated sewage, which has completely eradicated aquatic life and turned what was once a vibrant habitat into a stagnant, polluted cesspool. During a recent visit, dense mats of water hyacinth were observed smothering the lake's surface, while a powerful foul odor filled the air. The bunds surrounding the lake were littered with heaps of meat and vegetable waste, and approximately 15 houses were found illegally constructed on the lake bed itself. Adding to the squalor, around 10 pigs were seen foraging through the filth.
Systemic Failures and Political Protection of Encroachers
While the Tambaram corporation oversees more than 35 such water bodies, Rajakilpakkam lake stands out as one of the most severely affected. A 2021 inspection by the public works department documented 960 illegal structures both in and around the lake area, and since that time, encroachments have only multiplied further.
T Kumaresan, secretary of the Sathya Sai Nagar residents' welfare association, explained, "Most of the hawkers who are encroaching on the lake are shielded by politicians. The lake falls under corporation limits, but over the last five years, maintenance has been handled by the water resources department. During this period, we have witnessed the situation deteriorate from bad to worse."
Kumaresan added that the lake's natural surplus channel has been destroyed due to these encroachments. "PWD officials previously stated that funds would be allocated to construct a cut-and-cover drain as a replacement at a cost of 8.5 crore rupees. However, no drain has been built, and the problems persist unchanged."
Official Response Highlights Funding and Planning Delays
R Arunmozhi, WRD executive engineer, confirmed that no funds have been allocated yet for restoring Rajakilpakkam lake. "We have identified some lakes for restoration in collaboration with Tambaram corporation and CMDA. The assessment is still in its early stages, and a decision is expected by June," he stated.
The ongoing neglect and bureaucratic delays underscore a critical environmental crisis, as vital water bodies like Rajakilpakkam lake continue to degrade without immediate intervention, posing significant risks to local ecosystems and community health.
