New lease of life: A view of the Villivakkam lake surrounded by encroachments, which extends up to the Padi railway station. | Photo Credit: V. Ganesanmore-inThe Chennai Corporation will develop floating gardens in the Villivakkam lake as part of the eco-restoration of the waterbody. According to a study, a number of houses, commercial buildings and industries have been developed in 83% of the lake area, reducing the waterbody to 36.34 acres. In addition to encroachments by private agencies, Chennai Metrowater is using 11.5 acres of the lake for operating its sewer network. The data will be sent to the command and control centre of the Chennai Corporation.

Source: The Hindu November 14, 2017 19:30 UTC