EFI founder Arun Krishnamoorthy briefing Pallavaram MLA J. Kamatchi during a recent inspection of the restoration works at Pozhichalur Thangal. Social activist V. Santhanam is also seen.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Pozhichalur Thangal, a twin-pond system that had suffered years of garbage dumping, sewage inflow, and neglect, has been restored by the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI), an NGO engaged in habitat restoration and conservation, providing a fresh lease of life to a key waterbody in Pozhichalur near Pammal.
The restoration, carried out under the ‘Blue-Green Chengalpattu’ initiative, involved the removal of more than 11 tonnes of garbage and debris, desilting of the ponds, and measures to improve groundwater recharge and biodiversity. According to the EFI, this has increased the waterbody’s storage capacity to more than 8.6 crore litres.
Restoration measures
EFI founder Arun Krishnamoorthy said restoration of the seven-acre south pond began in September 2025, while work on the four-acre north pond was completed by March this year. The remaining works would be completed shortly, he said.
The project included the removal of garbage and invasive vegetation, desilting, construction of dual embankments, installation of recharge structures, and creation of nesting islands for birds.
“Large quantities of garbage and accumulated silt were removed. Sewage inlets were blocked, and invasive weeds cleared. It was a challenging task,” Mr. Krishnamoorthy said.
The excavated silt was used to strengthen bunds around the ponds and create five nesting islands. Fencing has also been erected to prevent fresh dumping of waste, he said.
A view of the restored north pond of Pozhichalur Thangal, where desilting and habitat improvement works were carried out under the BlueGreen Chengalpattu initiative.
| Photo Credit:
T. Arvind
The remaining Prosopis juliflora (seemai karuvelam) trees will be removed and a final clean-up undertaken before the monsoon, Mr. Krishnamoorthy said. He added that public participation would be crucial to safeguard the restored waterbodies.
Residents hopeful
Residents welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it would improve groundwater levels and the local environment.
“There was a time, nearly three decades ago, when water could be drawn easily from our wells. Over the years, the condition has deteriorated,” said Radha, a resident, adding that the restoration would improve groundwater recharge and provide a better walking environment.
Ponnamma, another resident, said the area was once overgrown with thorny vegetation and frequently used for anti-social activities. “Now we can live without fear,” she said.
Aravind, who lives near the north pond, urged authorities to ensure that sewage from unauthorised underground drainage connections was not allowed to re-enter the waterbody.
Pedestrian pathway
Officials said a major portion of the pedestrian pathway around the south pond had already been developed using MPLADS (Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) funds. The remaining stretch, along with amenities such as lighting, is expected to be taken up by the State government.
Pallavaram MLA J. Kamatchi told reporters that apart from Thiruneermalai Periya Eri, where work has been initiated by the Water Resources Department, plans for restoring lakes would be taken up after a detailed assessment.
Senior social activist V. Santhanam welcomed the restoration of Pozhichalur Thangal and urged authorities to prepare a comprehensive action plan for rejuvenating other waterbodies in the Pallavaram constituency, including Veeraraghavan, Nemilichery, and Sembakkam lakes.
Published – June 12, 2026 12:47 am IST
