WRD moves to protect reservoir catchment areas from pollution after residents raise concerns

The Water Resources Department (WRD) has written to local bodies and the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), seeking measures to prevent sewage pollution in the catchment areas of Chembarambakkam reservoir, one of the key drinking water sources of Chennai.

The move follows representations from residents to the department, alleging sewage inflows into the Cooum and other channels. Residents of fast-developing areas along the unpolluted stretch of the river said sewage from the neighbouring localities, which lack underground drainage infrastructure, was released into the river.

Residents of Manavala Nagar in Tiruvallur have long been demanding the protection of this stretch, which serves as a source for irrigation and groundwater recharge, from sewage discharge.