The new year has brought immense joy to the residents of Upparapalayam village, located near Tirumullaivoyal in Tamil Nadu. Their groundwater table has risen significantly, water quality has seen a dramatic improvement, and birds are now flocking to the area in large numbers.
A Lake Reborn from Neglect
This remarkable transformation stems from the ecological restoration of Naganthaangal lake. For years, the lake served as a dumping ground and a haunt for tipplers, falling into a state of severe neglect. The revival effort, known as 'Project Nanneer', was initiated by Tata Communications Limited (TCL) using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
TCL completed the ambitious restoration project in just eighteen months. The company's swift action has turned a once-dying water body into a thriving ecosystem.
Tangible Benefits for Villagers
Before the restoration, villagers faced immense hardship accessing water. The groundwater was hard, forcing residents to drill as deep as 150 feet to secure a supply. Now, water is available at a mere 20 feet, a change that has brought immense relief.
Resident R Ragu confirms the dramatic shift. "Now, water is available at just 20 feet," he states, highlighting the practical impact on daily life.
The improvement in water quality is equally significant. Another resident, R Sivaranjani, shares her experience. "The water used to taste astringent, but now the quality has improved. We rely solely on groundwater now," she explains. This shift to dependable, clean groundwater marks a major upgrade for the community.
A Haven for Biodiversity
For nature enthusiasts, the lake's revival offers a special delight. The restored habitat now attracts at least twenty different bird species. Birdwatchers are beginning to visit, drawn by the avian activity. This influx of wildlife serves as a clear signal of recovering biodiversity in the area.
Beyond Ecology: Building Community
The project's scope extended beyond environmental repair. TCL also constructed a community hall for the villagers. This space has quickly become a hub where children play and morning walkers gather. Plans are in motion to install tiles along the walking path soon, further enhancing the community infrastructure.
A Model for the Future
Mukul Kumar, Vice-President at Tata Communications, reflects on the project's success. "What was a dying lake is now a vibrant ecosystem," he says. He expresses hope that the W-CReS study and the success at Naganthaangal will inspire similar transformations across the nation, sparking positive behavioural change towards water bodies.
Kumar emphasizes the model's broader relevance. He notes it offers real hope for Tamil Nadu's urban fringes, where many lakes face depletion, threatening both water security and local wildlife. The Upparapalayam story stands as a powerful testament to what focused ecological effort can achieve.
