Kadapakkam Lake Ecosystem Restoration Project

Ecosystem Restoration Project - Kadapakkam Lake, North Chennai

Project Overview:

• Location: Kadapakkam Lake, Manali, North Chennai
• Area: 134.89 acres
• Completion Date: Expected in September 2026
• Funding:
  • Asian Development Bank
  • Estimated cost: ₹58.31 crore
  • Additional grant from Global Environment Facility (GEF)

Project Features:

• Butterfly park
• Bird island featuring native tree species
• Children's play area

Biodiversity Survey:

• A baseline study conducted to identify existing populations of butterflies and odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) as bio-indicators of ecosystem health.
• Findings:
  • Butterfly Species Identified: Over 30 species
  • Odonate Species Identified: 14 species
  • Host plants found include Amaranthus, Barleria, Calotropis, Pergularia, Tylophora.

Climate Change and Flood Management:

• The project aims to enhance flood retention through nature-based solutions, particularly ahead of the northeast monsoon.
• Expected Outcomes:
  • Address climate change risks
  • Reduce current and future flood risks in monsoon seasons in north Chennai, particularly in the Kosasthalaiyar basin
  • Increase groundwater availability during the dry season

Long-term Impact:

• Enhance the resilience of the Chennai-Kosasthalaiyar River basin against climate change and disasters, contributing to making Chennai a safer living space with reduced vulnerability to disaster.

Significance and Relevance:

• The restoration aligns with broader environmental goals and reflects the emphasis on sustainable development practices.
• It highlights the role of biodiversity in ecosystem health and disaster resilience.
• Fulfills components of various environmental initiatives and policies aimed at addressing urban flooding and climate adaptation strategies, supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).