Wed Nov 19 13:14:39 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
The Water Resources Department (WRD) has inaugurated the restored Kazhinjur and Dharapadavedu lakes near Katpadi, Vellore. The restoration, completed at a cost of ₹36.59 crore, includes desilting, deepening, a walking track, safety fencing, and the creation of artificial islands to attract migratory birds. The project aims to improve water storage capacity, recharge groundwater, prevent flooding, and provide recreational facilities for the local community. The lakes benefit over 15,000 residents in surrounding villages who rely on them for water consumption.
News Article:
Vellore Lakes Rejuvenated, Promising Relief from Floods and Enhanced Water Security
Vellore, November 19, 2025 – The Water Resources Department (WRD) today inaugurated the revitalized Kazhinjur and Dharapadavedu lakes near Katpadi town in Vellore, marking a significant step towards improved water management and recreational opportunities for the region. Minister for Water Resources Duraimurugan officially opened the restored lakes in the presence of Collector V.R. Subbulaxmi and Vellore MP D.M. Kathir Anand.
The ₹36.59 crore project, initiated in December 2022, has transformed the twin lakes into a multi-functional resource. Key improvements include desilting and deepening the lakes to their original depth of six metres, increasing their combined water storage capacity to 70 mcft. A six-kilometer tiled walking track has been constructed around the lakes, along with a nine-foot-high steel fence for visitor safety. Furthermore, the creation of three artificial islands aims to attract migratory birds and enhance the lakes’ biodiversity. Boating facilities are expected to be operational in the coming weeks.
“Apart from providing a much-needed recreational space for our residents, these rejuvenated lakes will play a crucial role in storing excess rainwater during the monsoon season, thereby recharging groundwater levels in the surrounding agricultural villages,” stated R. Ramkumar, Assistant Engineer (AE), PWD (Katpadi).
Local farmers echoed the sentiment. “The restoration of these two lakes will significantly reduce the risk of flooding in residential areas and surrounding villages during heavy rains,” said K. Pari, a local farmer.
The lakes are a vital water source for over 15,000 residents in eight nearby villages, with borewells drawing water from the bund of the lakes. The rejuvenation project is part of a broader effort by the WRD to maintain and improve water bodies across Vellore district, where they oversee 101 of the 519 tanks.
First Piper 