Restoration work is progressing at a brisk pace at the Thiruneermalai Periya Eri, a major water body adjoining the Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ) under the Tambaram Corporation limits, raising hope of enhanced water storage and flood mitigation in surrounding residential areas.
Spread over nearly 80 hectares (around 200 acres), the Periya Eri was once a lifeline for the farming community in the region.
But, over the years, it suffered from sewage inflow, indiscriminate dumping of garbage and encroachments. The lake is now being rejuvenated following an initial sanction of ₹5 crore by the State government.
The Water Resources Department (WRD) has commenced desilting works, a senior official said.
Invasive species
