From Coimbatore to Chennai: Siruthuli Revives Sholinganallur Lake

Coimbatore: Coimbatore-based environmental organisation Siruthuli has successfully completed the rejuvenation of Chennai’s Sholinganallur Lake in collaboration with Infosys Ltd., the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), the Water Resources Department (WRD) and other government stakeholders. The restored lake was formally inaugurated on June 5, 2026, coinciding with World Environment Day, marking a significant milestone in urban water conservation and sustainable environmental management.

Speaking at the inauguration, Siruthuli Managing Trustee Vanitha Mohan said the organisation has been leading environmental conservation initiatives since 2003 with a strong focus on water resource management, afforestation, waste management, environmental awareness and community development. She highlighted that Siruthuli’s projects are driven through collaborative efforts involving government agencies, corporate partners, educational institutions and the public.

Sholinganallur Lake, one of Chennai’s key urban water bodies, had suffered years of ecological degradation due to heavy siltation, declining water quality, reduced storage capacity and inflow of untreated wastewater. Before restoration, the lake’s storage capacity was around 150 million litres, limiting its effectiveness in groundwater recharge and ecosystem sustainability. Recognising these challenges, Siruthuli undertook a comprehensive restoration project aimed at increasing storage capacity, improving water quality, restoring ecological balance and enhancing urban biodiversity.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by P. Saravanan, MLA, Sholinganallur, as Chief Guest. Aftab Rasool, IAS, Regional Deputy Commissioner (South), Greater Chennai Corporation, participated as Guest of Honour. Senior representatives from Infosys, including Anil Kumar P.N., Development Centre Head, Chennai, and Niladri Prasad Mishra, Senior Vice President, were also present. The event witnessed the participation of Dr. S.V. Balasubramaniam, Chairman of Siruthuli, Vanitha Mohan, members of the Siruthuli Apex Body, government officials, local stakeholders and community representatives.

Siruthuli expressed gratitude to Infosys, GCC, WRD and various government departments for their support in successfully executing the restoration project. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to undertaking similar lake rejuvenation initiatives that contribute to building sustainable, climate-resilient and water-secure cities. The successful revival of Sholinganallur Lake further highlights how conservation expertise developed in Coimbatore can be effectively implemented in large-scale urban restoration projects across Tamil Nadu.