Madurantakam Lake: 95% Done, $₹163 Cr. Water Lifeline Restored

The historic Madurantakam Lake in Chengalpattu district, one of Tamil Nadu’s largest water bodies, is nearing the final phase of a ₹163-crore restoration project, with 95% of the work now complete.

Originally constructed in the 10th century by King Uthama Chozhan, the 4,752-acre lake has long served as a critical irrigation source for over 2,853 acres of farmland across 36 villages. Years of silt accumulation had significantly reduced its storage capacity, prompting sustained appeals from farmers and environmental groups.

Restoration work commenced in 2022 with an initial allocation of ₹120 crore, followed by an additional ₹43 crore for the installation of a 12-shutter automated surplus sluice gate system. Spanning 144 metres and powered by electric motors, the gates are now undergoing successful trial runs, aided by inflows from the northeast monsoon.

Once completed, the lake’s storage capacity will increase from 694 million cubic feet to 1,000 million cubic feet, significantly improving flood control, groundwater recharge, and paddy cultivation in the region. The project is expected to be fully operational by February 2026, restoring a key agricultural and ecological asset.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.