A previously neglected, garbage-filled four-acre plot in Valasaravakkam, Chennai, is undergoing a major transformation into a sprawling lake. Once prone to flooding, particularly near metro construction sites, the area faced regular disruptions. The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has addressed this issue by converting an abandoned private land into a three-acre pond, now holding 1.5 million cubic feet of water. The pond is set to be developed into an eco-park at an estimated cost of INR 5 crore, featuring multiple facilities, including a walking path, open-air theatre, and parking areas. Residents have also raised concerns about encroachment and the need for boundary walls.
A once-dilapidated, garbage-strewn four-acre plot in Valasaravakkam has been transformed into a flourishing lake and is set to become an eco-park offering a recreational retreat to the local community. The nearby Valasaravakkam and Porur areas, home to over 500,000 residents, had long struggled with frequent flooding, with water levels reaching knee-deep around metro rail work zones, causing traffic chaos along the busy Porur-Vadapalani road.
To address this, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has repurposed a neglected private plot into a three-acre pond, which was completed last month. The pond, now holding 1.5 million cubic feet of water, is situated just 200 metres from Arcot Road on First Main Road in Valasaravakkam. This pond is set to evolve into an eco-park, with an investment of INR 5 crore. The Subramania Venkateshara Swamy pond has been designed with multiple tree islands for bird habitats and an elevated bund to prevent encroachment. Future plans for the park include the addition of footpaths, parking, landscaping, an open-air theatre, gazebos, and toilet facilities in a one-acre zone.
Deputy Commissioner (Works) V. Sivakrishnamurthy explained that residents from 13 streets, including Jai Nagar and Sairram Nagar, had appealed for a solution to the area's persistent flooding problems. He shared that after identifying the unused private land, they reached out to the landowners and acquired it. The excavation of the pond was completed in a month. The pond, which now helps absorb excess road runoff, will be equipped with interception channels to filter stormwater drain (SWD) water, allowing cleaner water to flow into the pond. Chief Engineer S. Rajendiran added that future plans include introducing boating activities, similar to those at Chetpet Lake, which could also contribute to local tourism.
However, local residents have raised concerns about the lack of boundary walls at the western end of the pond, fearing that people may throw garbage from nearby balconies or that encroachers could take over abandoned sections. Suggestions to install arches, gates, and a watchman have been put forward to secure the area.
The transformation of a neglected plot into a three-acre pond in Valasaravakkam marks a significant improvement in local infrastructure, offering both practical solutions to flooding and recreational space for residents. With plans to further develop the eco-park, the project will not only address flooding but also boost local tourism and provide the community with a much-needed leisure facility. However, concerns about encroachment and waste management highlight the ongoing need for proper safeguards to maintain the area's sustainability and appeal.
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