Sewage Discharge in Korattur Lake Sparks Outrage, Residents Plan Fresh Protests
Chennai | July 12, 2025 – Amid rising environmental concerns, residents of Korattur, a Chennai suburb, have vowed to escalate their protests against the continued discharge of untreated sewage into Korattur Lake, a crucial groundwater recharge source in the region.
The 600-acre lake, flanked by Ambattur and Retteri lakes, plays a pivotal role in maintaining ecological balance and groundwater levels. However, in recent years, the waterbody has been severely threatened by unchecked sewage inflows, invasive plant growth, and urban encroachments.
Residents Cry Foul Over Sewage Inflows
According to local residents, untreated sewage is being discharged into the lake via stormwater drains and minor inlets, particularly in areas like Ondiveeran Koil Street and Karukku.
“The untreated sewage has triggered widespread growth of water hyacinth, degrading the lake’s water quality and disrupting its ecosystem,” said S. Sujatha, a resident of Korattur.
Locals say the continued contamination has also severely impacted the livelihood of the fishing community and poses long-term environmental hazards.
Protests and Pleas Fall on Deaf Ears
Despite making several representations to the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) and the Water Resources Department (WRD), residents allege that no concrete restoration efforts have been initiated.
In response, members of the Korattur Aeri Pathukappu Makkal Iyakkam (KAPMI) — a citizens’ movement for lake conservation — are now planning an agitation at Ripon Building, the headquarters of the Chennai Corporation. Their aim is to garner the attention of top civic officials, including the Mayor.
“Last month, we were assured by Ambattur zone officials that a committee would be formed to monitor sewage discharge,” said S. Sekaran, KAPMI Secretary. “However, there has been no follow-up action.”
Invasive Species and Administrative Roadblocks
In addition to sewage, parts of the lake have also become overrun by ‘Seemai Karuvelam’ (Prosopis Juliflora), an invasive thorny shrub notorious for depleting groundwater and choking native plant species.
KAPMI members said they are awaiting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant authorities to begin clearing the invasive growth.
“We’ve approached multiple departments for permissions, but the bureaucratic delays are stalling conservation efforts,” Sekaran added.
Push to Declare Korattur Lake a Bird Sanctuary
Residents have long advocated for declaring Korattur Lake a protected bird sanctuary. However, the Forest Department clarified that any such move could only be initiated if the lake is transferred from the WRD’s control to the Forest Department.
This bureaucratic jurisdiction issue has left conservation plans in limbo, despite the lake being home to several migratory bird species.
Final Thoughts
Korattur Lake, once a lifeline for the local community and a thriving ecological zone, is now facing the brunt of urban apathy and administrative inertia. As untreated sewage continues to poison this vital waterbody, it threatens not just public health and local biodiversity, but also the larger urban water security of Chennai.
With growing civic activism and sustained pressure, it is imperative for local and state authorities to prioritize lake rejuvenation, act against pollution sources, and expedite inter-departmental coordination. Restoring Korattur Lake is not just an environmental necessity—it is a moral responsibility toward future generations.
