Salem, August 9: Farmers and water conservation activists in Salem district, Tamil Nadu, are intensifying their demands for the revival of the vast Panamarathupatti Lake. They are advocating for the diversion of additional water from the Mettur water system to enhance water availability in the lake. Additionally, they are calling for the removal of invasive Karuvellam trees that have encroached upon a significant portion of the reservoir.
Spanning approximately 2,140 acres and surrounded by hills on three sides, Panamarathupatti Lake was once a crucial source of drinking water for Salem city and Rasipuram. However, for nearly two decades, the lake has suffered from low water levels, adversely affecting groundwater availability and agriculture in the surrounding areas.
Farmers argue that this reservoir plays a vital role from both environmental and hydrological perspectives, as it connects to several small lakes and streams in the region. Reviving the lake could benefit around ten villages, improving groundwater recharge and agricultural prospects.
They have urged officials to consider the feasibility of bringing additional water from the Mettur system to Panamarathupatti. Farmers noted that an existing project already pumps extra water from the Poolampatti area. By studying the network and routes of this project, it may be possible to redirect additional water to the lake. The initial steps for the lake’s revival should involve removing the encroaching Karuvellam trees and obstacles in natural water flow paths. They also emphasized the need to assess the lake’s bottom condition to enhance its water storage capacity.
Meanwhile, water conservation activists reported that a cleaning campaign had begun earlier this year in some parts of the lake. However, the work was halted after the contractor’s tender period expired. They stressed the urgency of resuming these efforts for the lake’s preservation and rejuvenation.
Despite some areas being cleared, aggressive vegetation continues to spread rapidly on the lake’s bottom, reducing its water retention capacity and obstructing natural water flow. Activists have urged the Salem City Municipal Corporation to restart cleaning efforts and develop a comprehensive plan for the lake’s restoration.
Given the lake’s relatively elevated location, the possibility of pumping water into it could also be considered as part of the plan.
Corporation officials stated that restoration work had been underway since February through a tender process, but the contractor abandoned the project after the contract period ended. The municipal body is now preparing to issue a new tender.
Officials indicated that removing the invasive Karuvellam will be an immediate priority. As restoration progresses, the long-pending proposal to bring additional water from Mettur will also be evaluated.
Farmers believe that reviving the lake could significantly strengthen groundwater resources and improve irrigation prospects in nearby villages.
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