Villivakkam Lake, and an 8.5-acre pond being developed adjacent to it, are set to receive five million litres of treated water daily from a sewage treatment plant to ensure that both waterbodies retain water throughout the year, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) said.

A press release said the pond is being constructed at a cost of ₹7.90 crore, in compliance with the directions of the National Green Tribunal. It will be linked to the lake through pipelines.

The project also includes a 900-metre-long walkway, landscaped green spaces covering 11,400 sq.m., and lake-bund strengthening works using geo-textile and geo-grid technologies.

The pond is being developed adjacent to Villivakkam Lake, which has undergone restoration under the Smart City Mission.

The Villivakkam Lake, spread across 27.5 acres of land handed over by the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), has seen an increase in its water-holding capacity after desilting and restoration measures carried out under the Smart City Mission.

First phase of the project

The first phase of the project included the formation of lake bunds, walkways, seating areas, drinking water facilities, an administrative block, and a storm-water drain to channel rainwater into the lake. A glass suspension bridge was also constructed.

The second phase, proposed under a public-private partnership model, will include facilities such as a musical fountain, boating, fishing decks, water slides, a bird park, an aquarium, play areas, fitness facilities, restaurants, a skating rink, theatres, and parking infrastructure.

According to the release, the arrangement is expected to generate an annual revenue of about ₹1 crore for the GCC. The maintenance costs will be borne by the private operator.

GCC Commissioner G.S. Sameeran inspected the works on Sunday and directed officials to expedite their completion.