Veeraraghavan Eri (lake), once a freshwater source spread across 30 acres used by farmers for irrigation, is today in dire straits.It has shrunk to a third of what it was, choked by unchecked sewage discharge, plastic waste and encroachments, raising concerns over the effectiveness of ongoing lake rejuvenation works downstream.Located near New Colony in Chromepet, Veeraraghavan Eri is a supplementary lake feeding Thiruneermalai Periya Eri. The lake has shrunk to hardly 10 acres and has become an eyesore and a public health hazard.In 2023, the southern bench of the National Green Tribunal directed Tambaram Corporation and the water resources department to remove water hyacinth from the sewage-filled Veeraraghavan Eri within six months. “No work has been done,” say residents.Activist V Santhanam, a resident of Chromepet, says the lake continues to receive sewage despite an existing underground drainage system. “Unless the sewage inflow is stopped, the rejuvenated Thiruneermalai lake will remain polluted. This water body can be used to store rainwater and excess water,” says Santhanam. “Around 300 notices were issued to violators, but there has been no action.” Several years ago, Santhanam had filed an RTI, seeking information on steps taken to restore the waterbody. In 2019, residents formed a committee demanding that the municipality stop letting sewage into the lake. Tambaram Corporation commissioner S Balachander says a proposal was sent to restore Veeraraghavan Eri at `13.2 crore. “A private firm also allocated `3 crore as CSR funds. The work will begin soon to restore the lake,” he says.
