Coimbatore: The relentless efforts of Athikadavu Koushika Nadhi Mempatu Sangamhas atlast helped to restore the lost charm of Kalingarayan Kulam at Sarcarsamakulam near Kovilpalayam in Coimbatore district.
Coimbatore: The relentless efforts of Athikadavu Koushika Nadhi Mempatu Sangamhas atlast helped to restore the lost charm of Kalingarayan Kulam at Sarcarsamakulam near Kovilpalayam in Coimbatore district.
Spread across a sprawling 120 acres, the lake was last been brimming with water, twenty years ago. The lake can hold upto 43 crores litre of water and adjoins with the Koushika river. For the nine villages surrounding the area, the lake is the only water source for both agricultural and drinking water needs.
However, reckless dumping of poultry and other wastes turned the lake into a dumpyard, lament the villagers.
Athikadavu Koushika Nadhi Mempatu Sangam
"Beginning to restore the water body in 2019, over 400 volunteers including children of the NGO Athikadavu Koushika Nadhi Mempatu Sangam gather every Sunday at the lake to take part in the cleaning drive.
"As part of the drive, debris like dead trees, shrubs, wastes of all sorts including building debris that block water seepage and free flow were removed from the lake bed and its bund area. Following which, native saplings were planted to restore the bio-diversity and attract birds and insects. Since the makeover, over 70 different types of birds flock the lake and its bund area", informed Vijay Kumar, Project Coordinator of Athikadavu Koushika Nadhi Mempatu Sangam.
He further added that 3 km roads have been laid on the sides of the lake and 1900 saplings predominantly rare native species including medicinal plants and trees are planted along the bund.
While other ongoing works include cleaning, filter canal works etc., are on the verge of completion.
The locals of the area informed that if the approved funds by the government amounting to Rs. 5.58 crore for the restoration process is expedited, thousands of families and agricultural lands will benefit from the lake.
Thus far, as many as Rs 18.5 lakh rupees have been spent on this restoration work of Kalingarayan Kulam.