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The 2nd Eco-park in Chennai opens at Paruthipattu lake, Avadi

Posted on: 17/Jun/2019 2:11:25 PM
The Paruthipattu lake in Avadi, Chennai has been restored and renovated with modern facilities including provisions for boating.

Information is gathered that this 2nd Eco-park in Chennai Metro City is set to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on 17th June (Monday, today), according to sources.

The lake has been renovated at a cost of Rs 28 Crores following the efforts from Minister K Pandiarajan.

The residents of the area were expecting the lake to be opened soon after works got completed by March.

The 22-hectare lake that can hold 21.5 mc ft, water is one of the biggest water bodies in the neighbourhood. During monsoon, the lake receives water from Vilinjiyambakkam lake, also in Avadi, and subsequently feeds several other small water bodies.

The renovation work was started in 2016 by the State governments Public Works Department (PWD) to transform it into an eco-park, like Chetpet lake. The 1st phase of the project saw Rs 7.16 Crores spent while the phase-2 saw Rs 21 Crores being shelled out.

During the first phase, the authorities strengthened the bunds repaired shutters and canals and set up provisions for creating a bird sanctuary. During the 2nd Phase, a compound wall was erected, walkers path laid, inflow canal repaired, a park, gym, open-air auditorium and a playground come at the spot.

However, the greater highlight was creating the boathouse. Work got completed by 31st March and sources stated at that time that it will be opened Monday by the Chief Minister. The residents waited eagerly agog with excitement.

Being one of the biggest water bodies in the area, the lake will serve as a great attraction. The perimeter is over 2-km-long. People who like to walk now have a proper spot for that. There is a childrens park, too, and a playground. During weekends, I expect this place to teem with residents of the area.

It is expected that once it is open, small shops will swarm the place and make good business. However, it would also mean that the garbage generation will be more. While people should understand the importance of cleanliness and not throw garbage inside the premises, authorities should ensure that large bins are kept outside the lake and small ones inside.

Environmentalists observed that if the authorities want the lake to be a hotspot for birds, the human attraction must be reduced. They said, If they start boating here, birds may well not pick the spot for breeding. It must be seen how officials manage things here in the long run,.

The lake once opened, is certain toto attract many a resident and prove to be a place for them to unwind and relax.