A view of Panjapur tank, located on the Tiruchi- Madurai National Highway, is to be developed into a recreational.
| Photo Credit: M. MOORTHY
A Detailed Project Report (DPR) for converting the Panjapur lake, located along the Tiruchi-Madurai National Highway, into a recreational spot, is underway and is expected to be finalised within this month.
Sprawling over 43 hectares, the Panjapur lake is one of the major water bodies that attracts winged visitors. Since the lake is located near the newly opened Integrated Bus Terminus, the Tiruchi Corporation has proposed rejuvenating the water body and creating recreational amenities for the residents.
The plan was mooted in 2023 after environmentalists in the city urged the district administration to renovate the water bodies that were in total neglect.
A consultant has been appointed, and a sum of ₹23 lakh was sanctioned to prepare a feasibility report. Project estimation and fund requirements are yet to be finalised, a senior official said.
According to official sources, the restoration work includes clearing the inlet and outlet channels to ensure a seamless water flow into the lake, desilting to restore original capacity, strengthening bunds on all sides and removing encroachments and water hyacinths.
Apart from restoration, the available space around the water body would be utilised to create recreational amenities such as walkways, seating space, children’s play area, decorative lights, and planting of trees along its length to create an eco-friendly environment. It is said that redeveloping the water body will aid in recharging the groundwater table.
The Corporation has also planned to rejuvenate Kothamangalam big and small tanks, located in city limits, and Pirattiyur tank, situated close to the Tiruchi-Dindigul National Highway, Punganur, Malaipatti, and Kallikudi tanks located in the peripheral areas to augment the drinking water supply to meet the future requirements.
Published – July 10, 2025 06:35 pm IST
