KRISHNAGIRI: Farmers have called upon authorities to take stringent measures against individuals who are dumping waste and construction materials into the Puthur lake in Kattikhanapalli panchayat near Krishnagiri. According to the farmers, the lake is steadily shrinking due to the continuous dumping of waste and debris. They further alleged that over 100 houses have been constructed around the lake through encroachments.
The lake, which spanned approximately 105 acres just a few years ago, has now reduced to a mere 70 acres. Govindasamy K, a farmer, emphasized the lake's significance, stating, "The lake irrigates around 1,400 acres of farmland and generates several lakhs of rupees for the government through fishing auctions."
Pollution and Encroachment Concerns
Farmers have accused sanitation workers and local residents of dumping garbage into the lake. Additionally, meat sellers have been throwing bags of chicken waste into the water. The accumulation of garbage and debris is severely polluting the water, posing a threat to both agriculture and aquatic life.
Call for Immediate Action
The shrinking lake not only impacts irrigation but also affects the local economy. The farmers demand that the authorities take swift action to stop the dumping, remove encroachments, and restore the lake to its original size. They urge strict enforcement of environmental laws to prevent further degradation.
