SP Velumani, Minister of Municipalities and Rural Development declared the 288 acre Singanallur tank, one of the vital water bodies in the city as “Urban Biodiversity Preservation Zone” and unveiled the plaque to mark the event.
Delivering his speech on the inauguration of Dr.Abdul Kalam Ninaivu Vanam, an afforestation programme he said that "The Singanallur tank and its environs is a unique biodiversity spot with over 200 documented species of flora and fauna. The tank is home to over 10 endangered species of birds and fresh water tortoise.
Created during 16th century during the Chola era, it is fed by river Noyyal and part of the urban landscape and by declaring the water body as an urban bio diversity zone, an example is being set in the state to conserve water bodies, which are being destroyed in the name of development".
"The state government has allocated Rs.100 crore in the first phase and Rs.300 crore in the second phase for the renovation water bodies and channels in the state. The services of Isha yoga and Siruthuli are being used to plant trees and greening of urban living spaces in the city" the Minister said.
Officials from various government departments, Representatives of NGOs and CCMC Commissioner Dr. K. Vijayakarthikeyan were present during the unveiling event.