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Chennai’s Retteri Lake Restored, Set for Eco-Tourism Boost

CHENNAI, November 21, 2025 – Retteri Lake, a crucial drinking water source and flood management asset for Chennai, has reached full storage capacity following a recent restoration project. The Water Resources Department (WRD) is now focused on enhancing the lake’s ecological health and developing eco-tourism opportunities through collaborative efforts.

The ₹43.19 crore restoration project, which included deepening the lakebed, strengthening the foreshore bund, and creating three artificial islands, has increased the lake’s storage capacity from 32 million cubic feet (mcft) to 50 mcft.

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the lake’s water quality, the WRD has partnered with the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) to install eight solar-powered aerators. According to EFI founder Arun Krishnamurthy, these aerators will target areas with high nutrient loads to inhibit the growth of water hyacinth. Plans are also underway to plant an additional 2,000 trees along the lake and construct a container museum similar to the one at Keelkattalai lake, showcasing the lake’s features.

While residents have welcomed the restoration efforts, some concerns remain. J. Ravi, a resident of Kilburn Nagar, Madhavaram, emphasized the need to address sewage pollution and encroachments to fully realize the lake’s potential as an eco-tourism destination.

WRD officials stated that they are coordinating with Chennai Metrowater to plug sewage outfalls and expand the underground drainage network in surrounding areas. Chennai Metrowater already has infrastructure in place to supply 10 million litres a day of water from the lake. However, encroachment removal has been temporarily suspended due to pending court cases.

The restored Retteri Lake not only provides a vital source of drinking water and flood control but also promises to become a significant eco-tourism attraction for the city.

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