Story

1. Executive Summary:

The Chinnakarai Lake, a vital water body for the local farming community in several villages including Panchapatti, Kuruppanaickenpalayam, Thoppampatti, Koundachipudur, Sagunipalayam, Venkittipalayam and Nanjiyampalayam has suffered significant degradation due to poor water retention, siltation, and waste accumulation. The lake, which receives water only twice a year, dries out quickly and cannot sustain local agriculture through the dry season. The proposed project aims to restore the lake to its original capacity, improve its water storage, remove silt, prevent future contamination, and enhance community engagement. This initiative will also provide local employment opportunities and stimulate the local economy by supporting nearby food vendors during the restoration process.

2. Project Objectives:

• Restore the Lake’s Capacity: Enhance water retention capabilities to support agriculture during the dry season, ensuring a steady supply for irrigation.
• Remove Silt and Debris: Desilt the lake to restore its original water holding capacity and ensure proper water flow.
• Reconstruct Waste Disposal Systems: Rebuild the damaged water disposal structure to prevent contamination and ensure effective water management.
• Build Sanitation Infrastructure: Construct community toilets to maintain hygiene and prevent open defecation around the lake.
• Support Local Economy: Provide financial support to local food vendors by purchasing meals and snacks for laborers involved in the project.
• Enhance Biodiversity: Promote environmental sustainability through tree planting and the development of biodiversity around the lake.

3. Current Condition of the Lake:

• Water Level: The lake currently receives water only twice during the rainy season and dries out quickly due to its reduced capacity. The water storage needs to be extended to help retain water for 2-3 months, benefiting local farmers.
• Pollution: Once the lake dries up, many villagers use the area as a public restroom, causing environmental pollution. A sanitation solution (community toilets) will be established to address this.
• Encroachments: The lake has not been encroached upon yet; however, there is a significant accumulation of silt, sand, and rocks that reduces its size and impedes water flow.
• Siltation: Significant silt buildup is present in some areas of the lake, reducing its water retention capacity.
• Waste Disposal System: The existing waste disposal system is damaged and at risk of collapse, necessitating reconstruction.

4. Community Involvement and Stakeholders:

• Local Villagers: Villagers will benefit from improved agricultural opportunities, sanitation, and employment during the restoration.
• Local Food Vendors: By sourcing food and snacks for laborers from local eateries, the project will provide a steady income for local food vendors, stimulating the local economy.
• Nankotaiz Foundation: The project will be implemented and managed by Nankotaiz Foundation, with no external stakeholders such as the Village Panchayat or other NGOs involved.
• Thiru Kumaran Builders :  The project will be implemented and managed with collaboration by Thiru Kumaran Builders for the labor and machinery support.